General Dentistry or a Cosmetic Dentist Office: Which to Visit?

Many different types of dental services are available in dentistry to improve the appearance and health of your teeth. Cosmetic and general dentistry are two of the most common dental services. 

The difference between these two services is significant. So it is essential to understand which one you need. This blog will highlight the difference between cosmetic and general dentistry to help determine which one to visit. 

Cosmetic Dentistry vs. General Dentistry

The most significant difference between cosmetic and general dentistry lies in the type of treatment each offers. General dentistry focuses on preventive care, diagnosis, and treatments for existing oral health concerns. 

A cosmetic dentist specializes in improving the appearance of your teeth with various aesthetic procedures. The procedures range from straightening crooked teeth to whitening discolored smiles. 

When to Visit a Cosmetic Dentist Office? 

You can visit a cosmetic dentist office if you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth and want to improve your smile. A cosmetic dentist specializes in veneers, dental implants, teeth whitening, and reshaping. All these dental treatments can help you enhance the aesthetics of your smile. 

Below are some of the common dental procedures that a cosmetic dentist performs. 

Tooth Whitening 

It is one of the most common dental procedures that cosmetic dentists offer. The procedure removes discoloration by bleaching the teeth, resulting in a brighter, whiter smile.

Dental Veneers 

Dental veneers are used to change the appearance of your teeth. The cosmetic dental procedure involves correcting broken, chipped, misaligned, and discolored teeth and reshaping them. 

Dental Crowns 

Dental crowns cover the entire tooth and provide extra protection and strength. They are made of ceramic or porcelain. They can fix cracked, broken, or severely worn teeth.

Dental Implants 

Dental implants are perfect if you have lost teeth or suffered severe dental damage. They are artificial roots of titanium surgically placed into the jawbone. 

When to Visit a General Dentistry Office?

You should consult a general dentist if you face dental health issues like tooth decay, gum diseases, or cavities. General dentists specialize in preventive services, diagnostics, and treating existing dental problems. Below are some of the most common procedures for general dentistry. 

• Toot Filling 

General dentists perform tooth fillings to repair minor cavities and damage to the teeth.

• Root Canal Treatments

This dental procedure repairs and saves a tooth severely damaged or infected by decay. 

• Tooth Extraction 

This dental procedure involves removing a tooth that is severely damaged or decayed beyond repair.

Choosing the Right Dentist for Your Needs

Choosing the right dentist depends on your oral health goals. A general dentist is the best choice if you need routine checkups, cavity fillings, or gum disease treatment. However, a cosmetic dentist is ideal if you want to improve your smile with teeth whitening, veneers, or dental implants. 

Consider factors like experience, specialization, patient reviews, and clinic location before deciding. It’s also essential to check whether they offer the latest dental technologies and personalized treatment plans. Ultimately, the decision is all yours.