Credentials for Cosmetic Dentists
All dentists must be licensed in their state, but there isn't board certification or a specific license for cosmetic dentistry. The American Dental Association does not as yet recognize cosmetic dentistry as a specialty. Instead, dentists seeking to further their education and ability in this area seek accreditation from organizations and further study at universities. While not all highly skilled and trained cosmetic dentists necessarily belong to (or take courses at) organizations like the AACD, LVI, PAC-Live or ASDA, you are assured that members of these organizations have completed extensive additional training.
You want a dentist who has enhanced their skills and can provide the most advanced cosmetic and restorative techniques available under rigorous standards. Always ask what they have done to further their skills in this field, and don't hesitate to press for specifics. After narrowing down which dentists you're considering, verify their dental license with your state's Dental License Board Examiner. The next page will help you to do that.

Next: Verifying a
dentist's license
- Introduction to finding a cosmetic dentist
- Finding potential cosmetic dentists
- Qualifying cosmetic dentists
- When considering a cosmetic dentist
- Credentials for cosmetic dentists
- Verifying a dentist's license
- Additional links to aid in your research
- A checklist to help you find the right cosmetic dentist
- A personal story about finding the right dentist