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How to Find a cosmetic dentist?

I desperately want to get two old front crowns replaced and veneers done.

Can anyone suggest how I can go about finding a cosmetic dentist? I live in London but have family in Scotland and wonder is costs might be cheaper there than central london?

Also for any dental experts on here... my old crowns have metal posts and my nhs dentists said that the best he could do (privately) was porcelain fused to gold. Is it impossible for me to have all porcelain crowns done?

my embarrassing teeth are causing me deep depression and I don't know where to turn.

Comments

  • domdent
    domdent Posts: 50 Forumite
    use toothsmiths guide to finding a dentist
    You should also look for someone who will consider implants.
    There are guidlines for the diagnostic assessment for cosmetic dentistry and this includes about 12 pictures of your teeth/smile etc ,diagnostic study models and wax up, xray pictures of your teeth and a complete check on the health of your gums,cheeks,tongue,lips,
    An analysis of your bite and the risk factors for the proposed work.
    There is more but this is an indication of what you should be offered before any treatment is costed/proposed
  • Toothsmith
    Toothsmith Posts: 10,124 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper
    Why not ask your current dentist if he can refer you anywhere?

    That would be the best bet.

    Costs may well be a bit lower outside the Capital, but I wouldn't go looking for a cheap job.

    domdent has given a good list of what the initial assessment appointments should look at, so you can see there's a lot of work in just checking that you're suitable for the treatment in the first place. That in itself won't be cheap.
    How to find a dentist.
    1. Get recommendations from friends/family/neighbours/etc.
    2. Once you have a short-list, VISIT the practices - dont just phone. Go on the pretext of getting a Practice Leaflet.
    3. Assess the helpfulness of the staff and the level of the facilities.
    4. Only book initial appointment when you find a place you are happy with.
  • jellyfish76
    jellyfish76 Posts: 81 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10 Posts Combo Breaker
    Thanks for your replies.

    I tried to get my own dentist to refer be but he seemed a bit offended that I wanted to go elsewhere.

    Going to a surgery in Scotland isnt just about the money -- I'd quite like someone to go with me for support.

    Right now, I'm just confused at where to start. There are so many websites offering the same sort of services.
  • alison999
    alison999 Posts: 1,769 Forumite
    Thanks for your replies.

    I tried to get my own dentist to refer be but he seemed a bit offended that I wanted to go elsewhere.

    Going to a surgery in Scotland isnt just about the money -- I'd quite like someone to go with me for support.

    Right now, I'm just confused at where to start. There are so many websites offering the same sort of services.


    just remember that sometimes its cheap for a reason. ask some friends (or family in scotland?) if they can recommend anyone.
  • Toothsmith
    Toothsmith Posts: 10,124 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper
    Thanks for your replies.

    I tried to get my own dentist to refer be but he seemed a bit offended that I wanted to go elsewhere.

    Going to a surgery in Scotland isnt just about the money -- I'd quite like someone to go with me for support.

    Right now, I'm just confused at where to start. There are so many websites offering the same sort of services.


    I would very much doubt that a dentist who earns most of his money from the NHS will have the experience to do what you require. If his best suggestion was metal bonded crowns, then that probably backs up my opinion.

    It might be better to look for a new general dentist - who may well be able to check that everything else is healthy and in tip top condition, before referring you on for the work you require.
    How to find a dentist.
    1. Get recommendations from friends/family/neighbours/etc.
    2. Once you have a short-list, VISIT the practices - dont just phone. Go on the pretext of getting a Practice Leaflet.
    3. Assess the helpfulness of the staff and the level of the facilities.
    4. Only book initial appointment when you find a place you are happy with.
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