About cosmetic dentist directories and dentists listed as 'cosmetic dentistry specialist.'

Why there are no "cosmetic dentistry specialists" in the United States.

In the United States, it is the American Dental Association that is the organizing body that designates different portions of the field of dentistry as being a true or formal dental specialty. The purpose of defining a specialty is to recognize areas where participating practitioners need to possess advanced knowledge and skills (training) before they will be able to adequately perform their duties in helping to restore or maintain the oral health of their patients. As examples, you might be aware of the following dental specialties: oral surgery, endodontics (root canal treatment), orthodontics. Dental specialists receive additional years of training after completing their doctorates in dentistry (DDS or DMD) in accredited training programs.

In regards to cosmetic dentistry, the American Dental Association has never found a need to recognize the area of dental cosmetics as a specialty. And for this reason, even though a general dentists may have spent considerable time and expense taking coursework that has helped them to develop and enhance their skills in cosmetic dental procedures, they are not a true "cosmetic dental specialists." This formal designation simply does not exist.

So, what does it mean when you see websites or web directories that list "Cosmetic Dentistry Specialists."

When you come across a website or online directory setup to help you find a "cosmetic dentist" in your area you need to understand what type of information you are being provided with. Unlike a directory listing of true dental specialists that could be obtained from a source such as a state dental board (the body that would evaluate credentials and oversee the licensing of such practitioners) you are instead being provided with list of pseudo/self-appointed "specialists." People who are found in the directory simply because they have paid the directory's listing or subscription fee.

This does not mean that the dentists found in these directories are not capable dentists and, in fact, their willingness to under go the costs involved with promoting the cosmetic dentistry side of their practices can indicate an interest and commitment towards cosmetic dental procedures that the typical general dentist may not have. However, as you look through these directories don't be confused or led astray. There is no recognized dental specialty in the field of cosmetic dentistry in the United States. The dentists listed in these directories are not "cosmetic dentistry specialists". There is no governing board that has evaluated or endorsed whatever extra training they have received (if any at all) in techniques associated with cosmetic dentistry.