Are you among the 70% of adults who feel self-conscious about their teeth? A recent survey found that half of us either cover our mouth when we laugh or smile with our lips sealed.
If you can commiserate, take heart. The good news is that there are more treatment options than ever before to give you the bright, beautiful smile you deserve.
The only thing standing in your way might be, “How can I find an affordable cosmetic dentist near me?”
Here are five tips that will guide you in your search for an affordable dentist in your locale.
1. Know Which Service You Want
Most people think of braces or Invisalign when they think of cosmetic dentistry, and those are some of the most popular treatments.
However, there are many other procedures you might consider too, such as:
- Professional whitening
- Dental veneers
- Dental crowns
- Dental implants
- Dental bonding
- Onlays & inlays
If you’re not sure which cosmetic treatment is right for you, learn more about your options so you can find the best dentist for your needs.
2. Ask for Recommendations
Once you know which services you’d like, it’s time to find an affordable dentist who specializes in that service. You could start by asking your regular dentist to recommend a reputable cosmetic dentist.
You could also ask your friends, neighbors, and colleagues if they know of a good cosmetic dental office in the area. Have they personally had procedures done there? Did they have a positive experience with the dentist and the staff?
3. Check Online Reviews
Next, take your search online. You could Google phrases such as “affordable cosmetic dentist near me” or “best dentist for Invisalign near me.”
Browse each dental office’s website and read patient testimonials. Don’t forget to check third-party review sites such as Yelp and their Google Business listing. Some dentists won’t list prices directly on their website, but reviewers often mention things such as affordability and financing options.
4. Schedule a Consultation
When you think you’ve found a suitable candidate, schedule a consultation to meet the dentist in person. Ask them about their training, experience, and continuing education. They should also be accredited and ideally a member of several dental organizations.
Of course, you’ll also want to pay attention to the friendliness and professionalism of the dentist and the staff. You should feel comfortable and welcome in the dental office — not just another number on the list.
5. Consider Payment Options
A good cosmetic dentist will offer several financing options to meet their patients’ needs.
This might include an in-house discount program or financing plan, or they may help you apply for CareCredit to finance your treatment. Some also offer a substantial discount if you’re able to pay in cash or upfront (or both).
Important note: Don’t automatically accept the lowest price, especially if it seems too good to be true. The dentist may cut corners or use inferior products, neither of which will give you the results you want.
Looking for an Affordable Cosmetic Dentist Near Me?
It’s not always easy to find an affordable dentist, but rest assured that they are out there! Use the tips above as you research cosmetic dentists and find the one that works for your budget.
Now that you’re found your “affordable cosmetic dentist near me,” what’s next? Keep browsing our site for more sage advice about healthy living.
