Cosmetic Dentistry v Regular Dentistry

UPDATED 2/13/21

The majority of cosmetic smile makeover procedures that many people seek are usually elective rather than necessary. Some cases of treatment also provide aesthetic tooth restoration benefits to patients. Some of these procedures are complex, like dental implants, and need focused care, while others are simple. Here are the different procedures a dentist can perform for you.

Inlays and Outlays
These cosmetic dental procedures are used in cases where a patient has doesn’t have enough tooth structure to support filling or in instances where one has teeth decay. An inlay is usually placed on the tooth surface, while an outlay is used to cover the entire tooth surface. They are both used in aesthetic tooth restoration to strengthen teeth, keep them in good shape and avoid further tooth decay.

Composite Bonding
This procedure is performed to better teeth options, decaying, discolored, or damaged using materials that look like the tooth enamel in color. A dentist will drill decaying teeth and then smear the composite onto the tooth surface and then mold it into a tooth’s shape.

Dental veneers
This procedure is performed on a patient who has crooked teeth, damaged enamel, or cracked teeth. The dentist will apply veneer to the affected teeth. A veneer is a medical graded ceramic that resembles natural teeth.

A regular dentist specializes in dental health. They’re who you visit for regular checkups, cleanings, and any minor procedures you may need, such as fillings. Just about every procedure a regular dentist offers can be done in one visit, so your trip to the local dentist is only a minimal break in your day.Nearly three-fourths of Americans believe that the opposite sex is attracted to a good smile. So your teeth aren’t just important to you—they’re important to the very continuation of our species. But the differences between a “healthy” smile and a “good looking” smile can sometimes be confusing, especially when deciding whether to see a regular dentist or a cosmetic dentist.

Then what is a cosmetic dentist? A cosmetic dentist specializes in aesthetic treatments and procedures, such as laser teeth whitening, veneers, and even complete replacements. These procedures are usually far more involved, and might require more than one visit. However, the results of the procedures can last for decades or longer. In fact, dental implants boast a 98% success rate and, with proper care, can easily last the rest of your life.

The two realms of dentistry are not without some overlap, though. Since whitening is the most popular cosmetic procedure, just about any good dentist can provide certain basic treatments, such as bleaching, in addition to cleanings, which are probably the most basic form of whitening. Conversely, the best cosmetic dentists still have overall dental health as a primary goal, and many cosmetic procedures, such as tooth replacement and full dental implants, also serve a highly functional purpose with regards to biting and chewing.

As a matter of course, you should see your regular dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. And if you do have any specialized questions or concerns regarding the overall appearance of your smile, they can give you the name of the best cosmetic dentist for whatever procedure you both think might give you the smile you want. Continue.