What is the Difference Between a General Dentist and a Cosmetic Dentist?
There aren’t too many people out there who enjoy a trip to the dentist, but it’s nice to know that there are dental professionals who are willing to assist you regardless of your wants or needs.
As a patient, it’s important to understand the difference between a general dentist and a cosmetic dentist. While they’re both trained to provide dental services, what they offer differs greatly.
What is a General Dentist?
A general dentist acts as your primary care dental provider. This is the person you see for regular check-ups or basic concerns, such as tooth sensitivity. They can diagnose, treat, and manage a variety of dental care concerns such as:
- Fillings
- Crowns
- Gum care
- Root canals
- Bridges veneers
If you require specialty care, your general dentist can refer you to a specialist in your local area. For example, your dentist may not be comfortable pulling teeth or performing advanced cosmetic procedures.
What is a Cosmetic Dentist?
With a focus on cosmetic dentistry, these healthcare professionals provide services designed to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile. Think about it this way: a general dentist will help keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy, while a cosmetic dentist is more concerned with your appearance.
Some of the many services provided by a cosmetic dentist include:
- Teeth whitening
- Porcelain veneers
- Ceramic restorations
- Tooth-colored fillings
- Teeth straightening
How to Find the Right Dentist
It doesn’t matter if you’re searching for a general dentist or cosmetic dentist, you must make an informed and confident decision. Here are three basic steps you can take to find the right dentist:
- Read online reviews
- Ask your friends and family for a referral
- Call the office and ask questions
Furthermore, if you require the services of a cosmetic dentist, ask your general dentist if they have any recommendations. There’s a very good chance they can point you in the right direction.
Now that you know the difference between a general dentist and a cosmetic dentist, you can decide which type to visit based on your requirements.