In short
What happens at a cosmetic or restorative dental consultation?
You talk through your goals, then your teeth, gums and bite are examined with X-rays. Photos and a digital scan record your teeth for planning, and a CBCT 3D scan is added only when it is needed, for example to plan an implant. For cosmetic work, the planned result can be previewed with imaging or a mock-up. You leave knowing your options.
From the office of Dr. Angela Berkovich, DMD, Deerfield Beach · (954) 427-3000
Last updated
- 3D (CBCT) scan
- Only when needed, such as for implant planning5
- Preview
- Imaging or a mock-up for cosmetic plans1
What to bring
These help your first visit go further:
- Recent X-rays from another dentist, if you have them
- A list of your medications and any health conditions
- Your dental insurance details
- Photos of your smile from the past, if you want something back the way it was
- Your questions, written down
Your consultation, step by step
Your goals
What bothers you about how your teeth look or work, and what you would like instead.
X-rays
Taken only when they give information needed for your diagnosis; new patients may need a baseline set.3
CBCT, only if needed
A 3D scan of the jaw for implant planning and some other cases. It uses more radiation than regular dental X-rays, so it isn't routine.5
Your options
What each option involves, how long it lasts and what it changes about your teeth, including the conservative ones.
Questions patients ask
Will I need a CBCT scan?
The FDA and ADA recommend X-rays, including CBCT, only when necessary, and CBCT only when regular imaging can't give the information.3,5
Can I bring X-rays from my last dentist?
Yes, please. Recent X-rays can mean fewer new ones.3
Do I have to decide on the day?
No. You can take your plan home, think it over and ask questions before anything starts.2
Is a digital scan the same as an impression?
It does the same job without putty, and the model is sent to the lab electronically.4
Who you'll see
Dr. Angela Berkovich, DMD
Dentist, trained at Oregon Health & Science University School of Dentistry
Dr. Berkovich examines your teeth herself and talks you through each option, including the ones that change your teeth the least.
Medical content reviewed by Dr. Angela Berkovich, DMD on .
Office: 1348 E Hillsboro Blvd Suite A, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441. (954) 427-3000
About Dr. BerkovichSources
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry: Your first appointment
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry: Common questions
- American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): X-rays
- Cleveland Clinic: Dental Impressions: Purpose & Procedure
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Dental Cone-beam Computed Tomography
- PubMed: Sanz et al. 2020, treatment of stage I–III periodontitis: EFP S3 clinical practice guideline
General information, not a diagnosis or a promise of results. Individual results vary, and whether a treatment suits you depends on your exam.