A lot of people get confused by the difference between general and cosmetic dentistry, especially if a practice offers both. If you need a dental crown, does it fall under the branch of cosmetic or general dentistry? The answer is that it can be both, and that often leads to a lot of confusion.
So, let's take a closer look at cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry and understand the difference between the two.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry involves treatments focused on improving the appearance of your smile.
Here are some of the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments:
- Teeth whitening: Used to brighten the natural color of teeth.
- Dental veneers: Thin shells that can correct issues such as discoloration, chips, or gaps.
- Dental bonding: It's used to repair chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth.
- Dental crowns: Are used to cover and restore damaged teeth.
- Orthodontics: The treatment includes the use of braces or clear aligners to correct alignment issues.
What Is General Dentistry?
General dentistry focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various dental conditions, such as decay, gum disease, and so on.
General dentistry can help you with:
- Preventive care: This involves regular dental checkups and cleanings meant to maintain proper oral health and identify potential issues early on.
- Restorative care: If you have a cavity, dental infection, or dental fracture, a general dentist can help restore your oral health with procedures such as dental fillings, crowns, bridges, or root canal therapy.
- Periodontal care: This involves the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of gum disease.
What's the Difference Between Cosmetic Dentistry and General Dentistry?
- They Have Different Purposes: Cosmetic dentistry's main focus is to improve the appearance of your smile while general dentistry focuses on maintaining and promoting good oral health. Put differently, one cares about the looks while the other cares about the functionality of your teeth.
- The Procedures Differ Too: Cosmetic dentistry procedures are done for cosmetic purposes. General dentistry covers a broader range of services, such as dental cleanings, fillings, extractions, and root canal treatments,
- Necessity: Cosmetic dentistry is often elective and not essential for maintaining oral health. People generally opt for cosmetic procedures to boost their self-confidence and enhance their appearance. That said, being able to smile confidently can influence one's self-esteem and mental health. So, if your teeth are severely stained or chipped, cosmetic dentistry may mean more to you than just a fad. General dentistry is crucial for your overall oral health and well-being. Regular dental checkups and treatments help prevent and address dental issues, maintain healthy teeth and gums, and avoid complications.
Which One Is Right for You?
The team at Kinard Family Dental can help you determine what type of dental treatment best suits your oral needs.
Contact us today to book your appointment with Dr. Sarah Kinard.
