I’ve noticed Dr. Cha is listed as one of the country’s best cosmetic dentists. I wondered if you guys could answer a question for me. I keep hearing how important it is for a cosmetic dentist to be artistic too. But, I’ve been thinking about that. Most dentists send the work out to a lab to do. So, wouldn’t it make more sense to make sure the lab is artistic?

Simone F. – Lafayette, LA

Simone,

Though a good lab is imperative, they are dependent on the dentist to have artistic skills. Your wisest course is to look for the best cosmetic dentist and let them worry about the lab. Here is what the dentist has to do in order to have a beautiful result:

1. The tooth has to be properly prepared for the procedure.

2. It is extremely important that a high quality impression of the teeth is taken.

3. Detailed instructions have to be given to the lab such as, a shading map. Notice your individual teeth are not the same shade from top to bottom. In addition to a shade map, there will need to be instructions on surface texture, the degree of translucency, and many other details.

Bear in mind  that a great cosmetic dentist will only use a great lab. However, a great lab may be getting instructions from a horrible dentist.

This blog is brought to you by Tulsa Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Jerome Cha.