In the past, people used to go to the dentist for checkups or when there was a problem that required treatment. But that’s history. Now, dentistry has come a long way, offering a wide variety of treatments and services that not only care for our dental health but also enhance the beauty of our smiles. Among these, general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry are two of the most common branches.
With that said, when searching for a dentist in Shelley for your oral health, you need to ensure that you pick the right dentistry for your needs. For that, it’s crucial to educate yourself on the distinctions. So, what’s the real difference between regular dentistry and cosmetic dentistry? Let’s break it down for you today!
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
A cosmetic dentist is a dental expert who focuses on enhancing and personalizing the appearance of the teeth and gums. They can do everything a general dentist does—and even more! The key goal of cosmetic dentistry is crafting a more attractive smile, enhancing oral function, and improving the overall quality of life.
Treatments That Fall Under Cosmetic Dentistry
- Teeth Whitening: This is a popular cosmetic procedure that uses specialised bleaching agents to remove stains and discolouration – giving you whiter teeth and a brighter smile.
- Porcelain Veneers: Thin, custom-made veneers, usually made from porcelain or composite resin, are placed over the front of your teeth to cover up imperfections like stains, chips, or gaps, giving you a smoother, more uniform smile.
- Dental Crowns:A custom-made crown that fits over a natural tooth and helps restore its strength, shape, and appearance.
- Orthodontics: Orthodontic treatments, like Invisalign® and clear aligners, correct misaligned teeth and bite problems, helping to enhance both the function and look of your smile.
- Inlays and Onlays: Larger fillings made of incredibly strong porcelain or ceramic that are custom made to be the perfect size, shape and colour to compliment your style.
- Smile Makeover: A full-service cosmetic dental treatment aimed to completely alter the look of your smile.
General Dentistry
A general dentist in Shelley is likely to provide preventive dental services and procedures that correct certain dental issues. Treatments That Fall Under General Dentistry
- Dental Cleans: Helps remove plaque, tartar buildup, and gum diseases with regular cleaning.
- Dental Fillings: Used to fix teeth affected by cavities and rebuild damaged root structures.
- Extractions: General dentists may extract problematic or damaged teeth, typically due to advanced decay or overcrowding.
- Oral examinations: Regular dental checkups are a great way to keep your oral health on track, allowing your dentist to check the health of your gums, teeth, and jaw.
Distinction Between General Dentist and Cosmetic Dentistry
This table represents the distinction between general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry in a concise manner.
| Aspect | General Dentist | Cosmetic Dentist |
| Focus | Oral health and disease prevention. | Aesthetic enhancement of teeth and smiles. |
| Main Goal | Keep teeth and gums healthy. | Improve the look and alignment of teeth. |
| Procedures | Check-ups, fillings, root canals. | Teeth whitening, veneers, smile makeovers. |
| Equipment | X-rays, root canal tools. | Veneer tools, whitening devices. |
| Approach | Focus on function and health. | Combine health with aesthetics. |
Are There Any Risks Associated With Cosmetic Dentistry?
As with other dental procedures, cosmetic dentistry also carries some risks like tooth sensitivity, gum irritation and, in rare cases, some complications related to the procedure. However, the chances of occurrence of these risks are almost slim to none when performed under the guidance of a qualified and experienced cosmetic dentist in Shelley. Before undergoing any cosmetic treatment, it’s important to discuss it with your dentist if you have any concerns.
How Do I Know Whether I Need Cosmetic Dentistry or General Dentistry?
When deciding whether to see a general dentist in Shelley or a cosmetic dentist – you need to consider your motivations and budget. If you’re looking to improve the overall health of your teeth and have access to routine appointments – then a general dentist is the best option for you. If you’re not happy with the way your teeth look and are interested in improving their appearance, then you might need the skills of a cosmetic dentist.
If you’re looking for someone who can offer you both general and cosmetic dentistry, you’ll want to ensure that you talk to them about their experience. The best part is that Bull Creek Dental offers both general and cosmetic dentistry under one roof.
Do the Costs of Cosmetic and General Dentistry Work Comparably?
The cost of dental procedures like repairing a damaged tooth or filling up a cavity can be pretty comparable whether you’re seeing a general dentist or a cosmetic one. However, there are also times when the prices can differ for the same treatment. This is because cosmetic dentists are dedicated to improving the appearance of your smile – which is why they may opt for higher-quality materials that give you a more natural and beautiful result. For example, while a regular dentist might use amalgam for a filling, a cosmetic dentist may go for a composite material that blends more naturally with the colour of your teeth. This makes composite fillings more expensive, but they also provide a much more attractive result.
Bull Creek Dental: Your Trusted Dentist in Shelley
Your journey towards a beautiful smile starts here! Bull Creek dental dentists will make you feel at ease in the dental chair, do a thorough examination, and recommend the best dentistry solution for you.
Our team of professionals will work with you to design a beautiful smile that naturally enhances your features and provides you with priceless confidence. Call to book your dental consultation today!
