What to Expect at Your Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation

Booking a cosmetic dentistry consultation can feel like a big step — especially if you’ve been thinking about it for months (or years). You might wonder: Will they judge my teeth? Will they push expensive treatments? Will it hurt?

Here’s the truth: a cosmetic consultation is the lowest-pressure appointment in dentistry. It’s a conversation, not a commitment. At Shield Dental Care in Burke, VA, here’s exactly what happens.

Before Your Appointment

What to Bring

• Your dental insurance card (if applicable)
• A list of any medications you’re taking
• Photos of smiles you admire (from celebrities, friends, or even your own older photos) — these help Dr. Ghorbani understand your aesthetic preferences

What to Think About

Before your visit, consider: – What specifically bothers you about your smile? – What would you change if you could change anything? – Do you have a timeline in mind (a wedding, reunion, or career milestone)? – Do you have a budget range in mind?

You don’t need firm answers to these questions — they just help guide the conversation.

During Your Consultation (45–60 Minutes)

Step 1: The Conversation (10–15 minutes)

Dr. Ghorbani starts by listening. He’ll ask: – What brought you in today? – What do you like and dislike about your current smile? – Have you had cosmetic dental work before? – Are there any health concerns or medications he should know about?

This isn’t a sales pitch — it’s a diagnostic conversation. Your goals guide everything that follows.

Step 2: Comprehensive Examination (15–20 minutes)

Dr. Ghorbani examines your: – Teeth — color, shape, size, alignment, chips, cracks, wear patterns – Gums — health, symmetry, gumline height, any signs of gum disease – Bite — how your upper and lower teeth meet, any grinding or clenching evidence – Facial structure — proportions, lip line (how much tooth shows when you smile), facial symmetry – Existing dental work — age and condition of fillings, crowns, or other restorations

Step 3: Digital Imaging and Smile Preview (10–15 minutes)

Using advanced digital technology, Dr. Ghorbani captures detailed images of your teeth and can create a simulation showing potential results. This is one of the most exciting parts of the consultation — you can see what your new smile could look like before any treatment begins.

Step 4: Treatment Options Discussion (10–15 minutes)

Based on the examination and your goals, Dr. Ghorbani presents your options — plural. You’ll typically receive:

• A recommended plan — what Dr. Ghorbani believes will give the best result
• Alternative options — more conservative or more affordable approaches
• An honest assessment of what each option can and cannot achieve

For example, if you came in asking about veneers but your concern could be fixed with bonding at a fraction of the cost, Dr. Ghorbani will tell you. We never recommend more treatment than you need.

Step 5: Cost and Timeline Review

You’ll receive a detailed written treatment plan including: – Itemized costs for each procedure – Insurance coverage assessment (where applicable) – Financing and payment plan options – Estimated timeline — number of visits and total treatment duration – Post-treatment care expectations

No surprise bills. No hidden fees. Everything in writing.

After Your Consultation

There is absolutely no obligation to proceed after your consultation. You’ll leave with: – A written treatment plan to review at home – Digital images and smile previews – Dr. Ghorbani’s direct recommendations – Time to think, discuss with family, and decide on your own schedule

Many patients schedule treatment at the end of their consultation because they’re excited to get started. Others take days, weeks, or even months to decide. Both are completely fine.

What If You Have Dental Anxiety?

If the idea of visiting any dentist — even for a consultation — makes you anxious, you’re not alone. At Shield Dental Care, we understand dental fear, and your consultation is designed to be as comfortable as possible.

For patients with significant anxiety, sedation options are available for treatment appointments. But the consultation itself is non-invasive — no drills, no needles, no treatment. Just a conversation and a look at what’s possible.

Common Questions Patients Ask During Consultations

“How many visits will I need?” It depends on the treatment. Bonding = 1 visit. Whitening = 1 visit. Veneers = 2 visits. A smile makeover combining multiple treatments = typically 3–6 visits over several weeks.

“Will my results look natural?” Yes — that’s the goal. Dr. Ghorbani designs every treatment to complement your facial features, skin tone, and age. “Natural” doesn’t mean perfect; it means perfectly you.

“What if I don’t like the results?” Digital previews and open communication before treatment minimize this risk. Dr. Ghorbani won’t proceed until you’ve approved the plan and understand what to expect.

“Can I just do part of the recommended plan?” Absolutely. Treatment plans are designed so individual components work independently. You can start with the highest-priority items and add more later.

The Hardest Part? Booking the Appointment.

Once you’re in the chair, the rest is easy. Dr. Ghorbani has been doing this for over 20 years, and he’s heard every concern and answered every question you might have. There’s no judgment — just a genuine desire to help you feel confident about your smile.

Ready to See What’s Possible?

📞 Call: (703) 978-5288 📅 Schedule Your Cosmetic Consultation 📍 Shield Dental Care — 5631 Burke Centre Pkwy, Suite C, Burke, VA 22015