What is the difference between a dentist and a cosmetic dentist?

A general dentist takes care of the basic dental needs of your entire family, while an aesthetic dentist focuses more on the aesthetics of the patient's smile. Both cosmetic and general dentists can fill a cavity. A cosmetic dentist focuses on the appearance of your teeth and gums. As described by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), cosmetic dentists offer a wide range of aesthetic procedures, such as teeth whitening, dental implants, tooth bonding, and veneers.

A cosmetic dentist receives extensive training in many different procedures. While the general dentist performs many of the same services, these are fillings, root canals, and gingivitis treatment. Cosmetic dentists learn to solve dental problems with smile aesthetics in mind. While they will continue to be aware of the health of their teeth and gums, their goals are slightly different from those of a general dentist.

Your training will include how to perform even general procedures and make them look good. Using the example of a posterior crown, which no one will see, a cosmetic dentist will take the time to ensure that it blends perfectly with the other teeth. A cosmetic dentist has the same basic training as a general dentist, but some additional education has also been given. If you visit a cosmetic dentist to whiten your teeth, you must first clean your teeth for the procedure to work well.

If you have a severely decayed tooth that needs repair and you go to a cosmetic dentist for an aesthetically attractive solution, the dentist will take x-rays before your chosen procedure. General dentistry focuses primarily on the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with the oral cavity and its related structures. In contrast, cosmetic dentistry aims to improve the overall appearance of teeth. The field of dentistry is divided into a number of other types of dentistry, including general and cosmetic dentistry.

If you decide to go to a cosmetic dentist instead of a general dentist for treatment, it's a good idea to do some research first. Although cosmetic procedures are not technically considered a recognized dental specialty, cosmetic dentists receive extensive training in smile design concepts. Cosmetic procedures, such as orthodontic procedures, not only correct the alignment of your teeth, but they can also make it easier to floss and clean your teeth. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the patient's facial appearance, while general dentistry deals with the prevention and treatment of dental disorders.

To restore your smile and the overall appearance of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry is considered both an art and a science. Both general and aesthetic dentists have the necessary skills to complete a series of commonly performed dental procedures that are simple or complex in nature. Today there is a wide variety of dental fields, and two of the most popular professionals in this industry are general dentists and cosmetics. While they can provide these services, they are not specially trained and have the same amount of experience as a cosmetic dentist will have.

When you think about going to the dentist for your biannual exams and cleanings, it's usually your general or family dentist. While the American Dental Association (ADA) does not officially recognize cosmetic dentistry as a specialty, dentists who focus on the more artistic aspects of dental care are considered cosmetic dentists by their patients and other dentists. Most general dentists also offer some cosmetic procedures, including in-office teeth whitening and bonding. Most cosmetic procedures are not essential, but they can be very beneficial and effective in improving patient confidence and facilitating future dental cleanings.

Cosmetic dentistry can provide the solution to almost any concern you may have with the appearance of your teeth, and in some cases, this comes with the benefit of improving your overall oral health. As noted by the British Columbia Dental Association, a general dentist usually diagnoses oral diseases, provides preventive treatments (such as cleanings), examines and interprets your x-rays, and develops treatment plans to help you achieve or maintain your oral health. . .

Colette Frei
Colette Frei

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