Cosmetic Dentistry vs. General Dentistry: Why We Do Both

The difference between general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry is that general dentistry is concerned with the prevention and treatment of oral disease, while cosmetic dentistry is concerned with the overall appearance of the teeth. Understanding the distinctions between the two may help you decide which service or dentist is the best fit for your needs and circumstances.

One essential point to remember is that all dentists have either a DMD or a DDS degree. Therefore, regardless of their expertise, whether general or cosmetic dentistry, your dentist is fully prepared to handle your oral health problems! In general, all dentists begin their careers as general dentists, but they have the ability to further their education by enrolling in aesthetic dentistry programs once they have completed their general dental training.

General Dentistry

Dentists that specialize in general dentistry handle issues that are connected with pain. Some general dentists may also provide treatment for gingivitis (gum irritation) and periodontitis (gum disease), which is a more severe condition (gum disease).

Routine dental examinations, professional cleanings, and oral cancer screenings are all part of preventive treatment at a general dentistry office. A general dentist may also perform fluoride treatments, as well as fitting mouthguards and sealing teeth.

Some general dentists also provide aesthetic dentistry services and general dentistry restorative procedures, including:

• Root canal
• Dental implants
• Extractions and fillings
• Pediatric dentistry
• Cleaning and preventative care

Cosmetic Dentistry

Interested in making the appearance of your teeth more appealing? That is something that a cosmetic dentist may assist you with. To put it another way, cosmetic dentists are mainly concerned with the appearance of your teeth. Cosmetic dentists have the training and education to offer an array of dental treatments, including smile makeovers, dentures, veneers, and inlays and onlays. It is strongly suggested that you consult with your orthodontist if everything else fails.

Cosmetic dentists provide a range of services including teeth whitening, crowns, dentures, implants, and even veneers. 

General & Cosmetic Dentistry Overlaps

There are various instances in which the distinction between general and aesthetic dentistry gets hazy. For example, dental veneers are aesthetic in nature since they conceal damaged or discolored teeth but may be considered restorative in nature because they protect the tooth’s surface from harm.

Although tooth bonding is a cosmetic surgery, the resin may be used to heal a decaying tooth.

Dentures improve the look of your mouth by filling in gaps. Simultaneously, they treat issues such as difficulty biting and slurred speech.

Dental bridges not only restore your smile, but also allow for proper bite function and prevent remaining teeth from moving out of position.

Dental implants, as an alternative to dentures and bridges, may significantly improve a patient’s functional and cosmetic quality of life.

Extractions may also be a point of convergence between general and aesthetic dentistry. While an extraction is a therapeutic operation, removing a decaying tooth can alter the look of your smile. You may then choose for a dental implant to replace your lost tooth, which is considered a cosmetic procedure.

Conclusion

Do you require a thorough cleaning? Well, you don’t have to rely on unprofessional and unresponsive dentists. At Gentle Dentistry, Dr. Derek Evans, DMD, operates as a dentist and offers reliable cleaning services. He is among the top-rated dentists in the area with a great reputation and expertise among fellow field workers.

Dr. Evans has practiced dentistry for many years, which gives him an edge over others in terms of knowledge, expertise, and skill. He ensures a comfortable environment where patients feel cared for, and meets patients with compassion and empathy. Trust us for your cleaning needs and give us a call at (435) 986-9799 to set a consultation date with Dr. Evans.