What Is the Difference Between a Dentist and a Cosmetic Dentist?
If you’re searching for a dentist, you may be confused by the options: should you see a general dentist, a cosmetic dentist, or someone who offers both services? While general dentists and cosmetic dentists may specialize in different things, they are both certified to offer a range of dental services. Here’s what you should know about the differences between a dentist and a cosmetic dentist:
Services Offered By a Dentist vs. a Cosmetic Dentist
A general dentist specializes in treating and preventing oral diseases, such as gingivitis. As such, common services offered by a general dentist include:
- Dental hygiene and dental cleanings
- Fillings
- Crowns
- Emergency dental services
- Some dental restoration services
- Root canal therapy
- Deep cleaning
A cosmetic dentist, on the other hand, provides services that are designed to improve the aesthetics of a smile, including:
- Invisible orthodontics
- Bonding
- Veneers
- Dental implants
- Dental restoration
- Teeth whitening
Who Might Need Cosmetic Dentistry Services?
While most general dentistry services are necessary for treating or mitigating dental diseases, most cosmetic dentistry services are completely optional. However, it’s important to note that cosmetic dentistry services have benefits outside of just aesthetics, though, such as improving someone’s confidence. You might be thinking about cosmetic dentistry services if you have missing teeth, discolored teeth, chipped teeth, cracked teeth, misshapen teeth, crooked teeth, or stained teeth.
All Dentists Are Qualified to Treat Your Dental Problems
While general dentists and cosmetic dentists may specialize in different things, it’s important to know that all dentists are qualified to provide you with a range of dental services and most dentists will offer both cosmetic and general dentistry services. This is because nearly all states require dentists to carry a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited institution, and all licensing jurisdictions in the U.S. require dentists to pass the National Board Dental Examination.
Call Distinctive Dental Solutions Today
At Distinctive Dental Solutions, we are happy to be able to offer both general and cosmetic dentistry services for our patients. Doctor Bret A. Bologna, DDS has been practicing dental medicine for decades and has the experience you’re looking for, and is assisted by a fantastic, highly qualified team of assistants and hygienists. We also offer financing for patients who do not have health insurance.
To learn more about our general and cosmetic dentistry services and how to get started with us today, please call us or send us a message at your convenience. We are accepting new patients.