What to Expect at Your First Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation

Dr. Madelyne Salo • August 7, 2026

A first cosmetic dentistry consultation at Salo Manhattan Beach includes a conversation about your smile goals, a complete evaluation using digital X-rays, professional photographs, and a 3D digital scan, and a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals, timeline, and budget.

Why the First Consultation Matters

Cosmetic dentistry is a significant investment, and the results depend on careful planning. Whether you are considering teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, orthodontics, or a complete smile makeover, the consultation is where Dr. Madelyne Salo learns what you love about your smile, what you would like to change, and what matters most to you. The best results come from listening first.

Key Information: What Happens During the Visit

After discussing your goals, our team gathers a complete picture of your oral health using advanced technology. This includes digital X-rays, professional photographs, and a 3D digital scan of your teeth. These records allow us to evaluate not only the appearance of your smile, but also your bite, function, and overall dental health.

From there, Dr. Salo sits down with you to explain what she sees, answer every question, and walk through your treatment options so you feel informed and confident. By the end of the visit, you should leave with a clear understanding of your smile and a personalized plan.

Important Considerations Before Your Visit

No two patients have the same goals, concerns, or story, so it helps to think about what you want from your smile before you arrive. If dental visits make you nervous, let us know. Our office is designed to feel welcoming and calming, our therapy dog Fletcher helps put anxious patients at ease, and sedation options are available through a board certified dental anesthesiologist.

Professional Insights from Dr. Salo

Dr. Salo teaches cosmetic dentistry through NYU's Aesthetic Advantage program, where she works with dentists from around the country on aesthetic techniques and smile design. Her approach is comprehensive: every treatment is designed to support long term function, comfort, and oral health, and every smile is customized to your facial features and bite rather than a one size fits all result.

When to Schedule a Consultation

If you are curious about improving the appearance, comfort, or function of your smile, a consultation is the right first step. Patients in Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and the surrounding South Bay can contact Salo Manhattan Beach to schedule a personalized cosmetic consultation with Dr. Salo.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens at a first cosmetic dentistry consultation?

The first consultation focuses on understanding your goals and evaluating your oral health. At Salo Manhattan Beach, this includes a conversation about what you would like to change, digital X-rays, professional photographs, and a 3D digital scan of your teeth. Dr. Salo then reviews the findings with you and maps out treatment options that fit your goals, timeline, and budget.

Do I need to prepare anything before my consultation?

No special preparation is required. The most helpful thing you can do is think about your smile goals, including what you like, what you would like to change, and any concerns about comfort or function. Bringing questions is encouraged, since the consultation is designed so you leave feeling informed and confident about your options.

Will the consultation tell me if my teeth are healthy enough for cosmetic treatment?

Yes. The records taken during your visit allow Dr. Salo to evaluate your bite, gum health, and overall dental health, not just appearance. If any underlying issues need attention first, they are identified and built into your treatment plan so your cosmetic results look natural, function well, and last.

Will I get a treatment plan and cost information at the consultation?

Yes. By the end of the visit, the goal is for you to have a personalized treatment plan and a clear understanding of the options that make sense for your goals, timeline, and budget. Whether you are interested in whitening, veneers, bonding, or orthodontics, everything is explained before any treatment begins.

How do I schedule a cosmetic consultation in Manhattan Beach?

You can schedule a consultation by contacting Salo Manhattan Beach directly through our website or by calling the office at 1151 N Sepulveda Blvd in Manhattan Beach. Our team serves patients throughout Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and the surrounding South Bay communities.

Take the First Step Toward Your Best Smile

Your first cosmetic consultation should leave you feeling informed, comfortable, and excited about what is possible for your smile. At Salo Manhattan Beach, every visit begins with listening and ends with a clear, personalized plan built around your goals, timeline, and budget. Contact our office at 1151 N Sepulveda Blvd to schedule your consultation with Dr. Salo. We proudly welcome patients from Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and the surrounding South Bay communities.