What is the Difference Between Cosmetic Dentistry and General Dentistry?

When searching for a dental specialist, you could have run over two terms: general dentist and cosmetic dentist. Suppose you really want a particular dental practice done or are searching for a new provider to care for your smile. In that case, it is essential to know whether a cosmetic dentist or general dentist is perfect for the required services. 

While both dental specialists are expected to have achieved a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, each focuses on unique parts of dental work. If you are not sure who to visit, then you should consider the following aspects:

What is the objective of treatment?

Patients have to consider the objective of any dental work while selecting the nature of the dental provider to address what is going on.

Treat or prevent dental health issues.

For patients who want treatment to address a dental health problem, it is an excellent decision to visit a general dentist in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. People usually feel more comfortable to have procedures done by somebody they already know. Moreover, this provider is a superior fit if an individual only finds a provider for routine cleanings and examinations.

Achieve a more attractive smile.

While cosmetic dental specialists began in general dentistry and have enough knowledge and experience in dental health, these dental experts specialize in procedures focused on the aesthetics of the mouth. If a patient's main concern is to achieve straight and bright teeth and a beautiful smile, then only a cosmetic dentist can help.

What is General Dentistry?

A general dentist’s main objective is to keep your teeth healthy. They prevent, detect, and treat disorders, conditions, and diseases in your mouth. They’re generally the dentists you’d visit twice yearly for dental cleanings. Most people don’t know that all dentists are general dentists! When dentists achieve their DMD or DDS, they are known as general dentists.

You might see different divisions for dentists. Some may be DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry), but they have the same degree, and both are general dentists.

General dentists are primarily known for preventative care and oral health treatments, which habitually include performing root canals, treating cavities, addressing chipped teeth, installing crowns, and whitening teeth.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a part of dentistry. The main job of a cosmetic dentist is to improve the look of your teeth, bite, and gums. This includes the shape, color, size, position, alignment, and complete smile.

Some dentists address themselves as “cosmetic dentists” without earning additional education, but if you’re sincerely looking for cosmetic dentistry, select a dentist who has the proper degree to be a cosmetic dentist. All you need is to check their bio, and everything will be revealed.

Cosmetic dentists get the same basic education like general dentists as they are general dentists. You can spot a cosmetic dentist performing dental cleanings, gum disease treatment, and root canals. They’ll concentrate on keeping your teeth healthy and correcting your smile. It’s the best of both worlds.

What does a Cosmetic Dentist do?

A cosmetic dentist can do all the services as a general dentist, but they have additional services. They’ll correct dental issues such as:

• Chipped teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Worn teeth
• Cracked teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Missing teeth
• Crowded teeth

Cosmetic techniques often help improve your teeth' function, too. Remember that teeth whitening and porcelain veneers are pure forms of cosmetic procedures because they don’t necessarily help with the working of your teeth. However, there are cases when porcelain veneers do.

Do they have different training?

Both cosmetic dentists and general dentists have the same basic training. They are all general dentists! However, several cosmetic dentists have extra training specializing in advanced dental implant training, laser dentistry, Invisalign, and overall mastership cosmetic training.

Does a cosmetic dentist charge more?

Cosmetic dentists don’t essentially charge more. The price is connected with the services or the procedure you choose. If you’re visiting a cosmetic dentist for services like cleaning, they’re possibly around the same price. However, many cosmetic dentists have pricing options for more expensive services.

Can a dentist be both general and cosmetic?

Yes! All cosmetic dentists are general dentists as well. They’ll be able to execute all the services like a general dentist does, but they highlight the appearance and the job of your teeth, jaws, gums, and smile. Like you need a plastic surgeon to stitch up an evident wound, you’ll require a cosmetic dentist to confirm that your smile looks as good as it feels.

Conclusion

The decision between a general dentist and a cosmetic dentist should align with your dental health needs and your desire for aesthetic improvements. A general dentist is the right choice if you prioritize maintaining oral health and need routine dental care. If you aspire to enhance the appearance of your smile and address cosmetic concerns, a cosmetic dentist in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, can provide specialized expertise. Many dentists can seamlessly blend general and cosmetic dentistry services to ensure that your smile looks great and remains healthy and functional.