What is the Difference Between General Dentistry & Cosmetic Dentistry?

General Dentistry is a dental field that focuses more on basic services to treat & prevent oral complications such as cavities. Cosmetic Dentistry is a dental professional that focuses on more on the look and function of the teeth. Patients who may be seeking a solution that will whiten, brighten, or make their smile look more natural, should seek out a dentist that specializes in cosmetic dentistry.

Here at Smith Family Dentist, we offer both cosmetic & general dental treatment services. When you are seeking the “right” cosmetic dentist it is important to know what it is you are looking to change about your smile. Once you know your desired outcome and you have found the right dentist, it is helpful to know what questions to ask.

WE SUGGEST ASKING YOUR COSMETIC DENTIST THE FOLLOWING:

• Am I a candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry?
• Are the goals I have for my smile realistic?
• Is it possible to see a computerized example or some type of representation of what it might look like?
• Do you allow a sneak peek using temporary crowns or veneers?
• Do you have any methods of testing shapes, sizes, or colors of the teeth before any permanent changes are made?
• Based on the recommendations you have made, are there any risks? What are the benefits or any alternatives?
• Can you example what the short term and long term effects on my dental health might be?
• Can I look at some examples of your previous work on other patients?
• What are the anticipated costs and the timelines of your recommendation?

Practices to Maintain or Create a Beautiful Smile:

In your first initial visit with your cosmetic dentist, they will look at several things that make up your smile, such as your gumline, gum health, the shape of your teeth, tooth alignment, spacing, your bite, and your jaw. Here are some of the cosmetic services dentist can provide and may discuss with you:

BASIC COSMETIC DENTAL TREATMENT:

• Dental Polish & Cleaning: Routine cleanings visits to your dental hygienist keeps your health looking fresher and brighter. Professional cleanings help to remove plaque buildup and remove stains that may be masking your smile. Routine cleanings are good for removing stains that live on the outer tooth surface and are caused by coffee, tea, wine, and so on.
• Professional Take-Home Whitening: When recommended your dentist can create fitted clear plastic trays to fit around your teeth accompanied with whitening gels for you to take home. The whitening gels are made up of carbamide peroxide 10% solutions and should be applied for 30 minutes twice a day. This process normally takes about 6 weeks to achieve the desired result.

MORE COMPLEX DENTAL TREATMENT:

• Bonding
• Tooth Colored Metal Free Restorations for Back Teeth
• Dental Implants
• Porcelain Veneers
• Porcelain Crowns
• Inlays/Olay

After discussing your desired results and goals, your dentist will be able to design a customized treatment plan for you. No patient and no mouth is the same, therefore it is important to find a cosmetic dentist that will find the right solution for your lifestyle and smile makeover.

Book an Appointment at Smith Family Dentistry in Charleston, WV!

At Smith Family Dentistry, Dr. Chris Smith & Dr. Richard Smith provide a wide range of dental services including cosmetic dentistry. We offer all the cosmetic dentistry services you need to restore your healthy and attractive smile for better self-confidence. To schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation with us, please call our office at (304) 343-9131 or Request an Appointment online. We look forward to seeing you soon and giving you many great reasons to show off your remarkable smile!