Published on
October 23, 2019 by Daniel Miller
A few decades back, there were not nearly as many dental fields as there are today. These different types of dentistry can create confusion in potential patients. The better they understand the differences, the easier it will be to have their dental needs met.
People are often confused about the difference between general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. Each is special in its area, but both share many skills.
What Is General Dentistry?
General dentistry is a field of dentistry that addresses dental problems associated with oral hygiene, dental pain, and discomfort. It typically includes procedures like tooth extraction, root canals, and cavity filling.
General dentists are the primary dental healthcare providers for people of all ages. They are not focused on any particular aspect of dental practices but instead provide a wide range of services.
These services are vital for continued dental health as well as physical health and can include the following:
- Preventive services
- Restorative services
- Cosmetic procedures
- Overall health concerns
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a field of dentistry that focuses on addressing dental aesthetics. It concentrates on the repair of worn, discolored, broken, chipped, misshapen, and stained teeth, as well as dental gaps.
Cosmetic dentistry concentrates on giving you a bright smile; it is a smile makeover. The different procedures performed by cosmetic dentists include the following:
- Teeth whitening
- Dental veneers
- Dental bonding
- Dental crowns
- Inlays and onlays
- Dental implants
- Dental bridges
What Are the Important Differences Between These Fields?
A cosmetic dentist has the same basic training as a general dentist. They can perform all necessary procedures that a general dentist can do, such as X-rays, teeth cleaning, and other fundamental techniques. Both general and cosmetic dentists can fill cavities and add bridges, crowns, and veneers. Both can also apply braces and perform other restorative procedures.
The main difference between cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry is that if you are concerned about how your teeth look, visiting a cosmetic dentist will provide you with your highest-quality aesthetic results.
A general dentist cares for the basic dental needs of your whole family, while a cosmetic dentist concentrates more on the aesthetics of the patient’s smile.
Both cosmetic and general dentists can fill a cavity. However, a cosmetic dentist will concentrate on how your teeth will look afterwards and can use a composite filling to match your teeth color.
Scheduling an Appointment with a Skilled Dentist
While both fields overlap each other, you must visit a dentist based on your needs rather than just on a recommendation. If you have been experiencing cosmetic or health issues with your teeth, Dr. Dan Miller is your ideal choice.
At Valley Dental Works, we offer cosmetic and family dentistry. Dr. Miller is an experienced cosmetic and clinical dentist who will be happy to help you and your family regain healthy and attractive-looking teeth.
During your consultation, we will assess your oral health and learn about your dental needs and goals. Contact our office today to schedule your informative and helpful consultation.
