If you have been thinking of pursuing a dental procedure, you may be wondering if you should choose a cosmetic dentist or a regular dentist. While both professionals are trained in oral health, they differ in the extent of their skills and knowledge. Keep reading for a comprehensive guide to the differences between a cosmetic dentist and a regular dentist.
Regular Dentist
A regular dentist offers preventative and general dental care. They are usually your first point of contact for oral health concerns. Regular dentists offer services such as teeth cleaning, fillings, and extractions. They also diagnose and treat gums, teeth, and mouth issues. However, they are not proficient in some cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Cosmetic Dentist
A cosmetic dentist, on the other hand, provides more specialized services, which include veneers, teeth whitening, and dental implants. Cosmetic dentists go beyond general cleaning, restoration, and disease prevention. They specialize in enhancing the smile's aesthetic appeal. In other words, the main goal of a cosmetic dentist is to improve the physical appearance of the teeth and gums.
Training
A regular dentist is also known as a general dentist. They have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in dentistry and a license to practice. They are trained to handle general oral issues. Cosmetic dentists, on the other hand, may undergo additional training after dental school. They have undergone further education in cosmetic dental procedures. This makes them more equipped to handle procedures such as crowns, bridges, and dental implants.
Services
Regular dentists can offer services such as fillings, cleanings, and oral exams. Cosmetic dentists offer more specialized services such as dental implants, veneers, and teeth whitening. Cosmetic dentists also focus on improving teeth and gums' cosmetic appearance, while regular dentists focus on maintaining oral health.
Cost
The cost of dental services differs depending on the dentist's specialty. Generally, cosmetic dentistry is more expensive than general dentistry. A cosmetic dental procedure is considered elective and not medically required. Therefore, cosmetic dental procedures are often not covered by dental insurance. However, some procedures, such as teeth whitening, may be partially covered by dental insurance.
Choosing the right dentist depends on your dental needs. If you require a routine dental check-up or an oral health issue arises, a regular dentist is your best bet. However, if you need to improve your smile's cosmetic appearance, a cosmetic dentist is the way to go. By understanding the differences between a regular and cosmetic dentist, you can make an informed decision about your dental health needs.
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