If you are considering visiting a dentist, you will likely encounter two distinct, yet interconnected branches
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If you are considering visiting a dentist, you will likely encounter two distinct, yet interconnected branches: cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry. While both share the common goal of enhancing your oral well-being, each has a distinct focus and intent.
Read on to explore the differences and overlaps between these two branches of dentistry, so that you can make an informed choice about your dental care provider.
At its very core, cosmetic dentistry is all about crafting beautiful smiles that boost one’s confidence and self-esteem, by refining the appearance of your teeth, gums and overall smile. Cosmetic dentists are akin to smile artists, as they have a deep understanding of facial aesthetics to help them design smiles that make you look your best.
1. Teeth Whitening: This removes stubborn stains and helps you achieve a bright and dazzling smile.
2. Dental Veneers: These help to cover up imperfections such as chipping, discolouration, gaps and unevenly shaped teeth, with custom-made porcelain veneers.
3. Dental Implants: These are a wonderful replacement for missing teeth and restore both functionality and aesthetics.
4. Smile Makeovers: This usually entails a combination of various procedures to help you transform your smile.
5. Orthodontics: This uses appliances like clear aligners and lingual braces, to help you achieve a smile that is better aligned.
General dentistry is the cornerstone of preventative, routine and restorative oral care. Here, the focus is on diagnosing, treating and preventing dental issues, to keep your teeth and gums in optimal health. It also includes a range of restorative procedures to restore functionality for biting, chewing and speaking. Regular visits to a general dentist are essential for timely detection of any issues and ensuring that your oral hygiene is well maintained.
1. Dental Examinations: These entail comprehensive check-ups to identify any dental concerns.
2. Dental Cleanings: These are professional cleanings to remove plaque, tartar and food debris, and help prevent decay and infection.
3. Cavity Fillings: In this, cavities are cleaned and filled using biocompatible fillings, to prevent further decay.
4. Tooth Extractions: Decayed or infected teeth are extracted, to prevent them impacting adjacent teeth.
5. Gum Care: This helps address gum inflammation and disease but also helps maintain healthy gums.
6. Root Canals: This helps save severely infected teeth from having to be extracted.
As you would have already understood, cosmetic and general dentistry have distinct focus areas. However, there are many times when the lines between them might blur, and their paths might intersect, as in the cases of:
Tooth Bonding: While largely considered a cosmetic dentistry treatment, general dentists might also use the same resin to fill up a cavity or repair a tooth.
Dental Veneers: Even as these are used to mark imperfections such as cracks, stains and the like on the tooth’s surface, they also help protect the tooth from damage.
Implants, Crowns & Bridges and Dentures: All of these are cosmetic options to replace missing teeth. However, apart from filling in the gaps and restoring your smile, they also offer an improved bite, clearer speech and prevent the adjacent teeth from shifting their positions.
What is also interesting to note is that both these branches prioritize oral health. After all, healthy teeth and gums are the foundation required even for aesthetic enhancements.
Deciding on the type of dentist you need completely depends on your requirements and goals. For comprehensive oral health maintenance, preventative or restorative care, a general dentistry practice would be the right choice. If you are looking to transform your smile with aesthetic enhancements, a cosmetic dentist such as Dr. Yvonne King can help you craft your dream smile. At CLDC, we can help you with all your general and cosmetic dental needs.
Do not let any uncertainty or fear hold you back from achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. Whether you are looking to boost your confidence, or maintain a healthy smile, we can help. Led by Dr. Yonne King, our team of world-class professionals is committed to providing a 5-star patient experience, and exceeding your expectations at every turn.
Take the next step towards your ideal smile and optimal oral health, by scheduling a consultation with our experts.
Remember, your dream smile is within your reach – do not hesitate to make it your reality!
