What is the Difference Between a Cosmetic Dentist and a Regular Dentist?

A cosmetic dentist is a dentist who focuses on improving the appearance of a patient's smile. Cosmetic dentistry may involve minor fixes or significant procedures to fix a patient's teeth, gums, and mouth. Cosmetic dentists receive training through the same programs as other dentists. While cosmetic dentists do not have recognition by the ADA, they can complete training beyond dental school to become qualified to perform cosmetic dental services.

Choosing between a cosmetic and regular dentist

Cosmetic and regular dentistry may have a purpose in your life. When patients see cosmetic or general dentists, their reasoning and goals tend to be different. Knowing the advantages of cosmetic and general dentistry can help patients decide which to visit.

Pros of a cosmetic dentist

A cosmetic dentist has an interest in improving your smile. Generally, cosmetic dentistry concerns itself with appearance, not strictly health. The main advantage of cosmetic dentistry is that it can correct various flaws within your smile.

If you have stained teeth, you can undergo a whitening procedure to reduce discoloration. Likewise, if you have misshapen, cracked, or chipped teeth, you can fit custom porcelain veneers to cover the flaws. Patients who have a gummy smile may seek a cosmetic dentist to perform gum contouring. In gum contouring, the dentist removes parts of the gum tissue to correct the gum line. If a patient has several concerns or aesthetic desires, the cosmetic dentist may perform various procedures.

After a visit to a cosmetic dentist, patients may have boosted self-confidence from the procedures. Additionally, cosmetic dentistry can enhance a person's career. Those who feel embarrassed by their smile may hold themselves back. Confident people tend to take on more leadership positions and have more motivation.

Pros of a regular dentist

A regular dentist may refer to your general dentist. General dentists should be your go-to provider for oral health. General dentists know their patient's histories and form treatment plans to treat various problem areas. A general dentist may educate patients on hygiene and can perform multiple services in-office.

When you go to your general dentist, you have a dentist who knows your dental needs, tracks your progress, and can perform preventative and restorative services. Dentists may perform cleanings, fillings, root canals, crowns, and extractions. If you have concerns about oral diseases or the health of your mouth, visiting a general dentist makes the most sense.

A general dentist focuses on improving patient health and function for patients who require help with decay or gum disease. While general dentists may perform some cosmetic dentistry, they may not have extensive cosmetic work training.

Conclusion

If patients do not like their smiles, they may consider cosmetic treatments. While general dentistry can improve a person's smile, it does not necessarily address issues that negatively impact self-confidence. For veneers, teeth whitening, crowns, and other procedures that will enhance the appearance of the mouth, patients should consider a cosmetic dentist.

Request an appointment here: https://gallodental.com or call GDC Smiles at (770) 504-5725 for an appointment in our Gainesville office.

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