The title of this article “Do I need a cosmetic dentist” is loaded with a lot of meaning. In this article we will cover the importance of obtaining a dental license. First of all, cosmetic procedures are very popular and this is good news for us dentists. It means we can practice what we love the most which is treating patients and making a living at the same time. Of course the best way to get started in the industry is by getting a degree in this field.
So what does it take to become one? Well, there are many things you need to do to qualify as one. The first step is gaining your cosmetic dentist license from your local Board of Dental Examiners. You can do this by taking a course at any community college or trade school. After you have completed the course you will have the opportunity to take the licensing examination.
Once you get your license you will be able to practice in whatever state you choose. You have to complete a year of supervised training at a college or trade school that offers dental courses. If you are choosing to be a dental assistant you will need to get a two year degree from a college or university that offers dental assisting courses. Then you will need to pass the certification exam administered by the State Board of Dental Examiners. This exam is given each year in a centralized examination site. It can be hard work and a great challenge but well worth it in the end.
American Board of Cosmetic Dentistry
The second step that you need to take to become a cosmetic dentist is to get certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Dentistry. They are the governing body and they require all dentists to be members. There are other organizations such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology that also require specific degrees in order to be certified. You will need to achieve a specific level of education and experience before you will be accredited.
Once you have gone through all of this process you will be ready to apply for different positions. Each state that has a cosmetic specialty requires different amounts of schooling and experience in order to qualify for each job. Some states only require a three year course while others require four. In order to find out the requirements for your specific state you can contact your local division of the AABDC.
As stated before it is mandatory for each dental technician to be certified in order to be a cosmetic dentist. The specialty areas of dentistry include cosmetic dentist procedures such as teeth whitening, gum surgery, teeth implants and even veneers. The teeth whitening procedure is very popular and is one of the most popular procedures that cosmetic dentists are known for. You can get your teeth whitened using a variety of methods such as lasers, bleaching, as well as the much more traditional ways such as using a bleaching paste or by using special trays.
Implants & Veneers
If you choose to get a teeth implant then you will have a different type of certification required than if you choose to get your teeth whitened. In this case you will have to meet and exceed the required qualifications set forth by your particular state’s board of dental examiner. These requirements vary widely. Most states require that you be at least 18 years of age and that you be a permanent resident of the state. You will also be expected to pass a physical exam as well as a psychological evaluation.
Cosmetic dentists that work on teeth extraction and crowns require different types of training. An individual that is looking into getting their teeth removed may need to meet additional qualification and certification standards. It is important that you make sure that you are working with a cosmetic dentist that meets these standards before you consent to have anything done. To be sure you are working with a reputable individual it will be wise to find out as much as possible about them and what exactly they do. Once you have done this research then you can decide whether or not you need a different type of certification. Finding the right cosmetic dentist for your needs will take time, but is worth it when you are happy with the results.
