Is cosmetic dentistry a specialty?

Although cosmetic dentistry is not considered a recognized specialty in the world of dental care and profession, however, it takes years of extensive study and training to become a cosmetic dentist and be able to perform the procedures currently available. To restore your smile and the overall appearance of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry is considered both an art and a science. A cosmetic dentist will probably suggest that you do your dental work with materials that preserve the appearance and aesthetics of your smile; i. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) is the world's largest international dental organization, comprised of general dentists, specialists and technical laboratories focused on the art and science of cosmetic dentistry.

Because cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized specialty, a professional who obtains a dental doctorate does not need to complete an academic program outside of their graduate degree. Because cosmetic dentistry is not recognized as a specialty, as is orthodontics, no further education is required. As in any industry, it's easy to know if the dentist you're seeing is trained in Cosmetic Dentistry. The Internet has made it possible to research cosmetic dentistry before scheduling a dentist appointment.

General dentistry focuses on preventing and treating oral ailments, while cosmetic dentistry deals with the overall aesthetic appearance of teeth. This is why cosmetic dentists are supposed to be better trained to perform aesthetic-related treatments, such as joints, porcelain veneers, porcelain crowns, or smile changes. That said, there's nothing stopping that new graduate from performing cosmetic dentistry procedures. However, that doesn't mean they have the education or experience to perform cosmetic dentistry procedures.

Cosmetic dentists try to provide you with good oral care while giving you a fresh, natural white smile. While some procedures overlap, others are performed almost exclusively by a prosthodontist or cosmetic dentist. By attending professional courses or programs, an aesthetic dentist acquires specific training in the field of aesthetics and develops certain skills that will help improve the appearance of your teeth. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the patient's facial appearance, while general dentistry deals with the prevention and treatment of dental disorders.

Because many consumers don't understand that cosmetic dentistry is not a specialty, increased marketing efforts for aesthetic services can be confusing and misleading.

Colette Frei
Colette Frei

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