What Makes a Cosmetic Dentist Different from a General Dentist?

You may have wondered whether your smile could use more than just regular cleanings and checkups. You’re probably looking into finding a cosmetic dentist. It’s a common misconception that a general dentist and a cosmetic dentist are the same. However, there are key differences that may affect your treatment. In today’s blog, we’re going to explain the key differences between a cosmetic dentist and a general dentist.

Whether you’re interested in a brighter smile through a teeth-whitening procedure, a smile makeover through veneers, or a repair of a chipped tooth through bonding, a cosmetic dentist has the expertise and training to deliver to suit your aesthetic objectives. However, how does it differ from a general dental visit? Here are the significant differences.

What Does a General Dentist Do?

The general dentist focuses on maintaining and enhancing patients’ oral health. The dentist offers basic services such as:

• Dental cleanings for removing plaque and tartar buildup
• Exams for monitoring your teeth, gums, and overall oral health
• Fillings for cavities & basic restorative work
• Root canal treatment for infected or damaged teeth
• Preventive care, such as fluoride treatments and dental sealants. 

The general dentist will address any dental concerns affecting you and provide basic care to keep your teeth and gums healthy. The dentist may not, however, possess the advanced skills required to perform aesthetic dental care that a cosmetic dentist in El Segundo can offer.

What Makes Cosmetic Dentistry Different?

Cosmetic dentistry helps beautify your smile. Where general dentistry is health and function-oriented, cosmetic dentistry is aesthetic-oriented. 

The cosmetic dentist uses advanced procedures and materials to ensure results that look great and perform well daily. Although general dentists can provide whitening, it is their specialization and finesse as cosmetic dentists that make them the professionals of choice for a smile makeover.

Training and Expertise: The Difference in Specialization

General dentists and cosmetic dentists both graduate from dental school and earn licenses to practice. However, many cosmetic dentists will obtain additional education related to their specialization as it pertains to aesthetic (cosmetic) procedures. Examples of further training in all aspects of cosmetic dentistry include:

• Advanced knowledge regarding how to improve the beauty of one’s smile while also maintaining the health and function of the teeth.
• Artistic skill in designing and shaping treatments so that the final product is indistinguishable from the patient’s natural teeth.
• Use of advanced technology, including digital imaging and 3D scanning, to create and refine a patient’s smile design.

A cosmetic dentist in El Segundo typically completes many years of training in specialized techniques, including (but not limited to) the application of porcelain veneers and teeth whitening methods. Additionally, their research keeps them informed of current trends and advancements in cosmetic dental care; therefore, the treatments they provide their patients are always the latest available options.

The Consultation Process: What to Expect

A cosmetic dental consultation will differ from a visit with your general dentist in many ways; the most significant difference being that a cosmetic dentist will work with you to establish a custom solution for your dental aesthetic needs. A few of the key components within the framework for your cosmetic dental consultation include:

• An in-depth consultation to evaluate your desired aesthetic outcomes for your smile
• Creating imaging and treatment planning based on your individual goals and needs
• A patient-focused approach to care that will reflect your facial features, personal preferences, and desired outcomes

While general dentists are primarily concerned with maintaining your overall oral health, they typically do not offer the ability to customize treatment for aesthetic outcomes. Conversely, cosmetic dentists in the El Segundo area will go above and beyond to ensure that your smile meets your expectations by reshaping your teeth, changing their colour, changing their alignment, etc.

Common Procedures Available in Cosmetic Dentistry

Here are some popular cosmetic dentistry treatments that can enhance your smile:

• Teeth Whitening: This straightforward, widely used procedure lightens teeth by removing stains from food, beverages, or tobacco, resulting in a brighter grin.
• Dental Veneers: These thin shells are attached to the front surfaces of teeth to enhance their look. They address various cosmetic concerns such as discoloration, chips, and spaces between teeth.
• Invisalign: An innovative method for achieving straighter teeth, Invisalign uses clear aligners that offer a comfortable, discreet alternative to traditional braces.
• Dental Implants: For individuals who have lost a tooth, implants provide an effective solution by replacing the missing tooth and restoring both functionality and aesthetics.
• Bonding: This adaptable treatment repairs chips, gaps, and cracks with tooth-colored resin, improving the shape and appearance of your teeth.

How to Know Which Dentist You Need

A general dentist provides basic dental care, such as cleanings, check-ups, and fillings. But to improve the aesthetic look of your smile, you need a cosmetic dentist in El Segundo.

Consider doing some research for a cosmetic dentist if:

• You dislike the appearance of your teeth, either from yellowing or discoloration.
• You have chipped, cracked, or irregularly shaped teeth.
• You want to straighten your teeth but do not want the look of traditional metal braces.
• You seek a total makeover of your smile.

If you can relate to any of these, you are sure to find a cosmetic dentist who will put you on the right path for treatment.

Let Us Help Turn Your Dream Smile into Reality

Whatever your dream smile looks like, Pearl Dental is here to take care of you through cosmetic dentistry. Whether you need teeth whitening, veneers, or a complete smile makeover, our professional dental team is ready to provide personalized care. 

Call Pearl Dental today to book your consultation and take the first step toward achieving your perfect smile with our expert cosmetic dental services.

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