A common question many patients have is: what's the difference between general and cosmetic dentistry? While both types of dental care aim to improve oral health, they serve different purposes. General Dentistry Treatment focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases and issues, whereas cosmetic dentistry is centered on enhancing the appearance of your teeth and smile. Understanding the distinction helps you know which services you need based on your oral health goals and concerns.

Purpose and Focus of Each Discipline:

The main difference lies in the goals of each type of care. General dentistry is designed to maintain oral health and prevent future problems, while cosmetic dentistry is elective and primarily focused on aesthetics.

General dentistry focuses on:

• Preventing and treating dental diseases
• Performing routine cleanings and exams
• Managing tooth pain and infections
• Educating patients on oral hygiene

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on:

• Improving the appearance of teeth
• Whitening stained or discolored teeth
• Reshaping uneven or chipped teeth
• Creating a more symmetrical, attractive smile

Both can overlap, especially when cosmetic procedures also help restore function, such as replacing missing teeth with aesthetic dental implants.

Common Procedures in General Dentistry:

General dentists provide a wide range of services that help patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. These procedures are often covered by dental insurance and are considered essential to oral and overall health.

Typical general dental procedures include:

• Dental cleanings and oral exams
• Fillings for cavities
• Tooth extractions when necessary