If you’re searching for the perfect dentist to improve your smile, you may be wondering which type is best for the job: a cosmetic or general dentist. After all, you want someone who can address all your aesthetic issues while ensuring that your oral health is protected, too. Here’s a closer look at these two types, and which services each are ideal for performing.
Cosmetic vs. General Dentist: What’s the Difference?
Much like their name implies, a cosmetic dentist is someone who has additional training and specializes in providing aesthetic treatment that improves the appearance of the smile. Conversely, a general dentist focuses on oral healthcare that is designed to heal or restore the mouth. Because they both must earn a dental degree, cosmetic and general dentists can perform treatments like dental cleanings, exams, fillings, extractions, and root canals. Furthermore, general dentists can also provide many cosmetic treatments, including teeth whitening, cosmetic dental bonding, and even gum recontouring.
Which Type of Dentist is Best for My Treatment?
Depending on the type of dental procedure you need, you may find different dentists who are more suitable than others for the job. For example, in addition to their extra schooling in aesthetic dentistry, a cosmetic dentist will spend more of their time providing elective care and thus may be ideal for certain aesthetic-only treatments, while a general dentist might be a better choice for an emergency procedure.
The Benefits of Seeing a Cosmetic Dentist
If you’re undergoing an aesthetic treatment like cosmetic dental bonding or gum recontouring, a cosmetic dentist is an excellent choice. That’s because they have additional training to help them notice details in the smile that others may not even consider, such as symmetry and balance, or how the shade of your teeth complements your skin tone and complexion. Rest assured, however, that they also have full training in general dentistry, so if they spot any problems while improving your smile, they can safely treat those prior to performing any aesthetic treatment, ensuring the teeth and gums remain healthy and strong.
Remember, if you’re considering aesthetic treatment for your smile, a cosmetic dentist is an ideal choice to help, but a general dentist is well qualified to perform these procedures, too. Ultimately, the best way to select the right woman or man for the job is to schedule a consultation, peruse their portfolio, and review the details of your treatment plan to ensure you’re getting the results you want from your smile makeover.
About Our Practice
At Cromer & Cairns Dental, our team of talented dentists is proud to provide a variety of smile-improving treatments to keep you grinning. Whether you need a cosmetic treatment like professional take-home whitening or cosmetic dental bonding, or you’d like to upgrade to metal-free dental crowns, Dr. Cromer, Dr. Schwartz and Dr. Hartman have the expertise and skills to help. To learn more about which cosmetic dentistry treatments can help achieve your smile goals, visit our website or call 772-562-5051.