General Vs. Cosmetic Dental Branches: What Are the Differences?

A few decades ago, there weren’t as many dentistry branches as we have today. That’s why knowing about the most popular of them is necessary for every individual who cares about their smiles. Furthermore, this variety can make people significantly confused if they lack needed information and they can’t decide which professional they need to see for their problems. In our clinic, Woodbridge Smile Centre, our staff can guide you about all the services we provide and we can refer you to a suitable expert whom you should see according to your situation.

Two of the most popular dental branches are cosmetic and general dentistry, which offer amazing services. In many cases, patients don’t know how each expert can help and become very confused when they want to make an appointment. The better you understand the differences, the easier it will be to have your needs met.

Both our general and cosmetic dentists in Woodbridge can boost your smile and oral wellness, and the important thing you should understand is the personal goals you are following. Keep reading this blog for more information!

What’s the cosmetic field?

It’s a very popular branch mostly focused on the appearance of a patient’s smile. It can enhance your chipped, cracked, misaligned and stained teeth in order to make you a more confident and charming person. Here is an overview of the services these experts usually offer.

• Invisalign: It’s a very popular technique to straighten one’s teeth without others notice. Many adults aren’t interested in the look of braces that’s why they prefer these clear aligners. Our dentists can design you the best Invisalign in Woodbridge to resolve tooth misalignment and enjoy your flawless smile.
• Veneer and crown: These two are used for different purposes, and the main difference is the amount of tooth surface they can cover. For instance, porcelain veneers can hide minor cracks, chips and discoloration of your teeth, while crowns are used for more serious cases. Our dentists are very skillful in these treatments and provide quality veneer and crown services in Woodbridge to deliver amazing outcomes.
• Whitening: If you suffer from discolored and stained teeth, it’s time to visit a cosmetic specialist. Our experts can brighten your teeth thanks to the Woodbridge professional teeth whitening, and you will leave the office happy with your new smile.

These experts also offer many other treatments like inlays and onlays, bonding, implants, etc.

Cosmetic Dentistry

• Teeth whitening: Teeth whitening is a procedure that uses chemicals to brighten the color of teeth.
• Veneers: Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front of teeth to improve their appearance.
• Bonding: Bonding is a procedure that uses tooth-colored resin to fill in gaps, cracks, or chips in teeth.
• Gum contouring: Gum contouring is a procedure that is used to reshape and recontour the gums to improve the appearance of the smile.
• Restorative cosmetic dentistry: This branch of cosmetic dentistry uses a combination of techniques to restore the appearance of teeth and gums that have been damaged by trauma, aging, or other factors.

What’s the general field?

These professionals are the best option when you have zero knowledge of different dentistry branches. However, they are mainly focused on addressing oral hygiene-related problems to reduce pain and discomfort. They cover a very wide range of procedures, and anyone can visit them regardless of age and medical condition. Furthermore, general dentists provide patients with amazing restorative services. In our clinic, you can find the most skillful restorative dentists in Woodbridge if you need them. They also can teach patients about effective prevention methods so they can take good care of their oral wellness.

Don’t hesitate and make your first appointment now. Our dentists are always ready to help!

General Dentistry

• Routine checkups and cleanings: These are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing dental problems.
• Fluoride treatments: Fluoride is a mineral that helps to protect teeth from decay.
• Sealants: Sealants are a protective coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent decay.
• Fillings: Fillings are used to repair cavities in teeth.
• Crowns: Crowns are a type of dental restoration that is used to cover a damaged or decayed tooth.
• Root canals: Root canals are a procedure used to treat infected or damaged tooth pulp.
• Extractions: Extractions are used to remove teeth that are damaged, diseased, or not salvageable.

Choosing the Right Dental Branch

The decision between general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you seek routine care, preventive measures, and treatment for dental problems, a general dentist is the ideal choice. However, if you desire to enhance the aesthetics of your smile, cosmetic dentistry can address your concerns.

Collaboration between General Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry

In many cases, general and cosmetic dentists work together to provide comprehensive dental care. General dentists may refer patients to cosmetic dentists for specific aesthetic procedures, while cosmetic dentists may consult with general dentists for underlying dental issues that may affect cosmetic outcomes.

Prioritizing Oral Health

Regardless of your choice of dental branch, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for overall dental health and preventing the need for more complex or expensive procedures. Regular dental checkups, brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and limiting sugary drinks are essential for preserving a healthy smile.

By understanding the distinctions between general and cosmetic dentistry and prioritizing oral health, you can make informed decisions that align with your individual needs and goals for achieving a beautiful and healthy smile.

Who should see a general dentist vs. a cosmetic dentist?

Most people will see a general dentist for their regular dental checkups and cleanings. General dentists can handle a wide range of dental issues, from minor cavities to more complex procedures. If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, you will typically first see a general dentist for an evaluation. They can assess your oral health and recommend appropriate cosmetic procedures.

Here are some general guidelines for when to see a general dentist versus a cosmetic dentist:

• See a general dentist for: Regular dental checkups and cleanings, preventive care, diagnosis and treatment of dental problems, oral exams and screenings.

• See a cosmetic dentist for: Veneers, crowns, bonding, teeth whitening, gum contouring, and other procedures that focus on enhancing smile aesthetics.

Choosing the right dentist for your needs

It is important to find a dentist who you feel comfortable with and who has the experience and expertise to address your specific dental needs. Ask your friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations. You can also check online reviews and consider your dentist’s credentials and certifications.

Once you have narrowed down your options, schedule consultations with different dentists to get a feel for their approach and bedside manner. Ask about their experience, their fees, and what procedures they typically recommend for your particular situation.

With careful planning and informed decisions, you can find the right dentist to help you achieve your oral health goals.

Conclusion

General and cosmetic dentistry are both important aspects of overall oral health. General dentists provide essential preventive and restorative care, while cosmetic dentists can help to enhance the appearance of the teeth and smile. Both types of dentists work together to ensure that you have a healthy, beautiful smile for life.