Many people think of tooth pain when they hear the word dentistry. Unfortunately, dentistry does not only focus on toothaches and extractions. It entails different dental fields, and each focuses on oral health. General and cosmetic procedures are the common types of dentistry. Some people confuse the two and are not sure which treatment will solve their oral needs. Continue reading and understand what cosmetic and general dentistry entails:
What Is General Dentistry?
General dentistry focuses on preventing and fixing oral issues. For instance, if you experience tooth pain or discomfort, you should consult a general dentist. They can also treat issues with the gum tissues and bones. That's not all! They perform dental cleaning and exams to ensure a clean mouth. When you neglect dental cleaning, plaque can increase and cause issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities. Some of the common procedures of general dentistry involve root canals, tooth replacement, dental filling, and scaling and root planing.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the smile. It changes and restores the appearance of the teeth. If the teeth have cracks, discoloration, or chips, cosmetic dentistry can be your solution. Some of the procedures performed in cosmetic dental care are teeth whitening, dental veneers, inlays and onlays, and dental bonding.
Which One Should You Consider: Cosmetic Or General Dentistry?
When to consider cosmetic or general dental care depends on your oral needs. Do you want to improve the color of your teeth? Or do you want to hide imperfections caused by tooth damage? Then, cosmetic dentistry is your solution. If you have decay or cavities, you may need to consult a general dentist for an effective treatment. Sometimes, you may need a combination of these two procedures to improve your oral health while enhancing your smile.
For instance, a decayed tooth that is beyond repair may require extraction to prevent the decay from progressing. However, your smile may change upon extraction. In this case, a dentist may suggest cosmetic dental procedures to fill the gaps. Contact us, and our professionals will help you determine whether you need cosmetic or general dental treatments.
For instance, a decayed tooth that is beyond repair may require extraction to prevent the decay from progressing. However, your smile may change upon extraction. In this case, a dentist may suggest cosmetic dental procedures to fill the gaps. Contact us, and our professionals will help you determine whether you need cosmetic or general dental treatments.