Most people rarely consider the differences between cosmetic and family dentistry, or may not know there is a difference. Most of the time, your general dentist will be able to handle most cosmetic work you’ll need, so there is rarely any difference between the two options. However, it is important to understand that general dentists focus on preventing problems and your overall oral health. They want your teeth to be healthy, which may not necessarily mean perfectly straight or white.
Cosmetic dentists tend to focus more on the overall appearance of your teeth, making you want to smile and laugh more frequently.
What General Dentists Do
General dentists provide two types of care, including preventative and oral health. Preventative care typically includes cleanings, checkups, oral cancer screenings and more. Every six months, you’ll go to the dentist and have your teeth checked, which can include x-rays.
Oral health care can include getting cavities filled, root canals and other restorative services. Wisdom tooth extraction, emergency dental work, dentures and crowns can all be considered general dentistry. The family dentist will also be able to help everyone in your family, from your spouse to your children. Age is usually not a problem, so you can take your toddler, teenager and yourself to the same place for tooth care.
What Cosmetic Dentists Do
Cosmetic dentists focus on the look of your teeth and mouth. These procedures typically include tooth contouring, Invisalign, teeth whitening, veneers and other options. They can help with overbites, gaps, underbites, crowded or crooked teeth and having very small or misshapen teeth.
In most cases, your general dentist may also be a cosmetic one, meaning they can perform aesthetic procedures and more.
Cosmetic Services
Typical cosmetic services include teeth whitening, veneers and Invisalign braces. Veneers can help with tooth gaps, chipped teeth and discolored teeth. While most people would prefer to have their teeth whitened, sometimes the stains are too bad. The veneer is a very thin material that is bonded to your teeth. Usually, they are porcelain to look more like normal teeth, though composite resin can also be used, which is a little cheaper.
Invisalign braces don’t use metal wires and instead use a plastic tray that is meant to be worn throughout the day. You remove them at night and to brush, allowing you to eat the foods you enjoy.
Dental Magic Dentistry
Family dentistry is considered an umbrella term that means your entire family can visit the same dentist whether they are children, toddlers or adults. Dental Magic Dentistry offers this and many other services, so visit their website today and learn more.
