Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the overall aesthetic appearance of teeth, while family dentistry deals with preventing and treating oral disease. Now it’s easy to determine which service or dentist is right for you once you know the difference between these two types of dentistry.
Read on to learn more differences between family and cosmetic dentists:
A young assistant holding a plastic model teeth, and in the background, a dentist treats a patient
Family Dentist
Though the skills of a family and cosmetic dentists can overlap, there are a few differences in these providers’ day-to-day services. Generally, the best place to start for you if you have no particular concerns with the appearance of your smile is a family dentist.
- The Role of a Family Dentist
Family dentists focus mainly on patients’ oral health. If you visit a family dentist familiar with preventive care, it is usually an excellent idea for most adults and older children. A family dentist can help keep a patient’s teeth healthy, clean, and free of the plaque that causes issues down the line.
- Times to Visit a Family Dentist
Typically, healthy patients visit family dentists twice a year for a regular dental checkup. It would help if you saw a family dentist to get a thorough cleaning, fill a cavity, have a root canal, or receive treatment for gum disease and more. You may also consider a family dentist if you seek a mouth guard for bruxism.
- What Does a Family Dentist Do?
A family dentist is the same as a general dentist, and both focus on your oral health. A family dentist is everyone’s go-to doctor for regular teeth cleanings and exams and concentrates mainly on preventative care and minor repairs.
In a typical family dentistry appointment, a family dentist begins with professional teeth cleaning that removes plaque that regular brushing and flossing can’t. Once the teeth cleaning is done, the dentist will do an exam, including looking for decay and gum disease, and in some cases, they may also take x-rays.
The family dentist may refer you to a specialist if he thinks you need extensive treatment.
Cosmetic Dentist
Although a cosmetic dentist has a different title, he also has extensive training in family dentistry and cosmetic procedures. Cosmetic dentists get their education in dental school like all dentists but must possess a Doctor of Medicine or a Doctor of Dental Surgery in Dentistry degree.
- The Role of a Cosmetic Dentist
Though cosmetic dentists focus on their patients’ appearance more than wellness, they are medical professionals who hold the patient’s oral health paramount. Cosmetic dentists offer services that can change the appearance and feel of a patient’s smile.
- Times to Visit a Cosmetic Dentist
A patient should visit a cosmetic dentist for any concerns relating to the appearance of teeth or gums, as the primary concern of cosmetic dentistry is the look of a patient’s gums and teeth. So, if you seek whiter teeth, teeth bonding, veneers, or other oral alterations that are not primarily health-based, a cosmetic dentist is ideal for you.
- What Does a Cosmetic Dentist Do?
Unlike family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry focuses more on appearance than health. A cosmetic dentist performs the following procedures:
- Dentures
Dental appliances that replace missing teeth are Dentures, and they are made of artificial teeth set in a pink base that resembles gums. Dentures are removable, or they can be fixed in place with implants.
- Bridges
Bridges are dental appliances that replace missing teeth. A bridge comprises two or more artificial teeth connected by crowns. They are placed on the existing teeth around the missing tooth, and the bridge is then cemented in place.
- Crowns
Crowns are dental appliances that repair damaged teeth. A crown encases a damaged tooth, protecting its appearance and health. Crowns are made of porcelain, metal, or other materials too.
- Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and Onlays are like partial crowns. Inlays repair the indented areas of teeth, while Onlays repair the peaks and tips of teeth. Inlays and Onlays are of porcelain or other materials.
- Braces
Braces are a fantastic option for patients who only need to adjust the layout of their teeth. They are available in various materials, such as metal, ceramic, or plastic, to slowly move the teeth into a better-looking shape.
- Veneers
A veneer is an outer “tooth” that goes over your natural tooth. They’re popular among patients who want to change their teeth’ size, shape, and whiteness.
- Composite fillings
Composite fillings are a restorative treatment for decaying teeth. Older fillings were made of metal, but composite fillings look more like natural teeth.
- Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening uses a specialized topical to lighten the teeth, and this can be done at home or in a dentist’s office.
Overlap Between Family Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry
Many dental treatments affect both oral health and appearance, which makes it tricky and includes (among others):
- Crowns
- Composite fillings
- Inlays & Onlays
In such cases, it is very confusing; which type of dentist do you visit? To make it simple: look for a dentist with strong experience in your required procedures. Ensure their results are satisfying for both health and appearance. A dentist with experience in cosmetic dentistry and family dentistry can provide both.
To Schedule, an Appointment with the Best Skilled Dentist in Norwood, MN, Contact Norwood Dental Today!
While both fields overlap, you should visit a dentist based on your requirements rather than just on recommendations. If you experience cosmetic or health issues with your teeth, Dr. Daniel Ross& Dr. Brandon Busslerare your ideal choice.
At Norwood Dental, we offer cosmetic and family dentistry with a highly skilled and experienced dentist who will always be happy to help you and your family regain healthy and attractive-looking teeth.
We will assess your oral health during your consultation and learn about your dental needs and goals. Contact us today to schedule your informative and helpful consultation!