General and cosmetic dentistry are common kinds of dentistry that intend to address oral issues. While both can help preserve a healthy mouth, each has treatment options and considerations. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing your teeth’s appearance, while general dentistry concentrates on the overall care and maintenance of your dental health.
General, Restorative, and Cosmetic Dentist: A Brief Overview
A general dentist is the one who you often visit for regular check-ups and preventive care. They may also handle gum disease or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Furthermore, they provide education about gums, flossing, and brushing.
On the other hand, a cosmetic dentist concentrates on the aesthetic aspects of dentistry. These include tooth whitening, porcelain veneers, dental implants, and even full-mouth reconstruction. While general dentists can provide a few of these services, cosmetic dentists have further training and usually focus on providing advanced solutions for perfect results.
Restorative dentistry is an extra field in the industry that often overlaps with both general and cosmetic dentistry. This specialty concentrates on restoring damaged or missing teeth through several treatments, such as crowns, root canals, bridges, and dental implants. In some cases, a cosmetic or general dentist can perform restorative treatments, but it’s recommended to see a specialized restorative dentist for the most effective results.
When Do You Need Cosmetic Dentistry?
Here are some reasons you might need to go to an Austin cosmetic dentistry center:
1. Severe Teeth Discolorations and Stains
Teeth stains and discolorations can be caused by smoking, stained-causing food and drinks like red wine and coffee, and even medications. If your teeth stains are severe, you may want to consider professional whitening treatments or dental veneers.
2. Visible Gaps Between Teeth
If there are gaps between your teeth that make it hard to smile with confidence, cosmetic dentistry can help. Depending on the gap’s size and shape, your dentist might suggest crown, bonding, bridges, or orthodontic treatments like traditional metal braces or Invisalign.
3. Chipped or Broken Teeth
Having broken or chipped teeth can be both an aesthetic and functional concern. You can cover up these flaws with porcelain veneers or crowns. If there’s any decay present, fillings might also be suggested.
When considering any cosmetic procedure, look no further than a trustworthy dental clinic in Austin, TX.
When Do You Need General Dentistry?
Below are some reasons why you might need general dentistry:
1. Preventive Care
Regular dental visits are essential for identifying and preventing oral problems before they become bigger issues. During these check-ups, your dentist will usually conduct cleanings, examine the health of your teeth and gums, take X-rays, administer fluoride treatments, and look for signs of decay or any other issues.
2. Restorative Treatments
If you have severe toothaches or infections that can’t be solved with preventive care alone, restorative treatments, such as endodontic therapy (root canals), might be needed. Restorative treatments include bridges, fillings, crowns, inlays/onlays, dental implant surgery, or dentures. Same-day dentures make a reliable treatment for people who can’t afford dental implants.
What Is the Price Difference Between General and Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry costs are usually higher than general dentistry, as it requires more specialized treatment and technology. Also, they are often not covered by insurance, as they are considered elective treatments.
However, prices may vary greatly depending on the following factors:
- The complexity of the procedure, such as if you need anesthesia
- Kinds of materials used
- Your dentist and location
- Whether you have dental insurance or not
- If you need additional treatment like bone grafting or sinus lift
Final Thoughts
Before committing to a particular treatment, you must know your dental circumstances and needs. Your first step is to book an initial consultation with your dentist so that they can evaluate your gums, teeth, and jaw. They’ll help you choose which kind of dentistry is best for you.