Whether you want dental veneers or just regular cleanings and checkups, you’ve likely heard of general and cosmetic dentistry. But what’s the difference between the two? This post will highlight the differences to help you determine which kind of dentist you should see. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of what defines each specialty and how to get the right dental care for your needs and dreams of a beautiful bite.
General Dentistry
This type of dentistry focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating oral health problems for patients of all ages. These dentists do not specialize in one area of dentistry or a specific procedure but instead offer services like professional cleanings and tooth extractions. A general dentist can handle routine checkups, examinations and deep cleanings and often offer restorative procedures and disease treatments. Some general dentists also offer some cosmetic treatments.
You should see a general dentist for regular checkups, preventative services, restorative services, and any oral health concerns. Your general dentist will help prevent tooth decay and disease, and it is recommended that you visit your general dentist every six months for professional cleanings and checkups. Your dentist will work with you to establish a proper oral hygiene routine and help you maintain your oral health.
General dentists offer several services, including teeth cleanings, oral cancer screenings, dental implants, cavity treatment, root canals, dental bridges, fluoride treatment and more!
Cosmetic Dentistry
This is a specialized field that focuses on your smile’s appearance. Aesthetics is the focus, and this kind of dentistry aims to improve the look of your teeth and gums, allowing you to smile and laugh confidently.
Some cosmetic dentists undergo the same basic training as general dentists, but they also have additional education specializing in transforming the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic dentists can perform basic teeth cleanings and exams because teeth need to be cleaned before cosmetic procedures begin. While cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the look of your smile, you can experience other oral health benefits as well. Some cosmetic treatments can strengthen weakened teeth or repair minor damage.
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, you should visit a cosmetic dentist because they can help you achieve a smile, you’ll be proud to show off. An attractive smile will boost your confidence and make you feel happier overall. Cosmetic dentistry makes it possible to transform the look of your smile completely. A cosmetic dentist can correct misaligned teeth, whiten stained teeth, or repair chips.
Cosmetic dentists offer several services, including teeth whitening, dental veneers, cosmetic bonding, tooth recontouring and more!
Cost
Cosmetic dentistry is sometimes more expensive than general dentistry because cosmetic dentists are concerned with the appearance of your smile and will likely choose more expensive materials. For example, a general dentist and a cosmetic dentist can remove tooth decay and fill a cavity if you have a cavity. However, a cosmetic dentist will likely choose composite fillings to match the colour of your existing teeth and create a more natural look. A general dentist, on the other hand, may choose a more affordable material amalgam, and their services may be more affordable simply because of the material.
Should you see a general dentist or a cosmetic dentist?
For your oral health, you should visit a dentist, but if you want to improve the appearance of your smile, you must visit a cosmetic dentist. It’s important to note, however, that a general dentist can often perform cosmetic procedures and offer dual services to accommodate every patient’s dental needs.
Consider your dental goals and concerns and choose your dentist according to this information. The right dentist will address your concerns and provide the best dental treatment.
Count on Brookside Family Dental
Are you looking for a reputable dentist in Chatham or Leamington? Brookside Family Dental provides patients with quality dental care, and we will do everything we can to provide you with your desired smile. We will assess the condition of your teeth and will provide you with professional recommendations regarding the dental procedure that would be best for your smile. Our dentist offers various diagnostic, preventative and treatment services, and whether you need a routine cleaning or an emergency dentist, our clinic is always ready to help.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
