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What Is the Difference between a General Dentist and Cosmetic Dentist?

general dentist vs cosmetic dentistWhen you’re looking for a dentist, it’s important to know whether you need a general dentist or cosmetic dentist. After all, not all dentists are the same; there are different types of dentistry, and depending on your needs, you may need to see a specific type of dentist. Knowing the difference between a cosmetic dentist and general dentist can help you make the right decision, as general dentists and cosmetic dentists handle very different dental concerns.

What Is General Dentistry?

A general dentist is the most common type of dentist. You most likely had a general dentist growing up, and there’s a good chance that you see a general dentist for regular biannual check-ups.

A general dentist is your main dental care professional, who you typically should be seeing for regular check-ups twice a year or as often as recommended. They manage and help treat your oral health, performing routine cleanings, diagnosing dental conditions/diseases, and providing dental services/procedures (including root canals, crowns, veneers, and tooth extraction).

A general dentist is like a family doctor for your teeth. They provide general dentistry services for you and ensure that your teeth and mouth are healthy. Some general dentists serve all ages, while others may specialize in treating children (and are usually referred to as children’s dentists).

General Dentistry Treatments

General dentists can provide a wide range of dental treatments, procedures, and operations. General dentists are fully capable of managing and treating any regular dental health concern. Some of the treatments they provide include:

  • Dental cleanings
  • Tooth fillings
  • Dental X-rays
  • Root canals
  • Tooth extraction
  • Dentures
  • Crowns and bridges
  • Dental bonding
  • Teeth whitening
  • Gingivitis treatment and management

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

While general dentistry is about improving the health and function of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance and look of your teeth, gums, smile, and bite. Cosmetic dentists often provide treatments that can improve the shape of teeth, the colour of teeth, your teeth alignment, and the look of your smile.

General dentists also offer cosmetic treatments; for instance, many general dentists offer teeth whitening procedures. However, cosmetic dentists may offer more advanced treatments that improve your aesthetics and appearance.

Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

There are many different types of cosmetic dental treatments. When it comes to cosmetic treatment for teeth, there are a number of advanced solutions that can have a drastic effect on your appearance:

  • Teeth whitening and bleaching procedures
  • Onlays/inlays
  • Dental bonding
  • Dental veneers
  • Dental implants

General Dentist vs. Cosmetic Dentist

So what’s the big difference between general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry?

General dentists help with treating and managing your teeth and gums and overall oral care. General dentists are concerned with the health and function of your teeth and they help diagnose diseases and conditions that can impact your gums, teeth, and overall health. They also help keep your teeth clean and at a lower risk for disease.

Seeing a general dentist is a necessity. It is recommended that you see a general dentist twice every year for a regular check-up and cleaning. General dentistry services are often covered by medical insurance or through workplace benefits.

On the other hand, cosmetic dentists work to improve the appearance and look of your teeth. Cosmetic dentistry is not considered a necessary service nor is it considered a specialty service. The services that a cosmetic dentist provides are elective services. However, for people who suffer from self-esteem issues or the social effects of poor appearance, cosmetic services can be very important.

Some dentists provide a mix of general and cosmetic dentistry services. In fact, there is some overlap between health issues/functional problems and cosmetic appearances. For instance, if you have a chipped or cracked tooth, then fixing the tooth is important for both preventing further damage and improving the appearance of your smile. By looking for “general and cosmetic dentistry near me,” you can find a dentist that can serve all of your needs.

Princeview Dental has been a fixture of The Kingsway area in Etobicoke for over 20 years, where we’ve provided dedicated family care in a professional, welcoming, and modern environment. Please call us today at (416) 231-4562 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

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