What are the Differences between a Regular Dentist and a Cosmetic Dentist?

Dentists actually do more than give checkups and good dental hygiene tips. Visiting a dentist regularly is an important part of making sure your teeth remain healthy. However, cosmetic dentistry is also an integral part of achieving that perfect smile. Here are some of the basic differences between a regular dentist and a cosmetic dentist in Jacksonville Beach.

Different Skill Sets

General dentists usually focus on providing preventative care. They also take care of issues that can be treated in one session. However, there are just few exceptions. Most general dentists perform procedures that are not very invasive. Cosmetic dentists concentrate on procedures that are aesthetic. A cosmetic dentist has much of the same education that a general dentist has, but also has a broader scope of knowledge. Both dental professionals perform both simple and more complex procedures.

General Dentist Practices

General and family dental services include, but are not limited to routine care, biannual checkups, root canals, extractions, and things of that nature. General dental services are what you should be visiting the dentist twice a year for. General dentists can also diagnose dental issues such as gum disease and other oral disorders. General dentists usually maintain the dental structure that is already there. They don’t make changes beyond extractions.

Cosmetic Dentist Practices

Cosmetic dental procedures may include things such as dental implants, veneers, teeth whitening, and even smile makeovers. Cosmetic dentistry generally improves the look of what is already there by repair or replacement. Some of the procedures may even be surgical in nature. People who have been in accidents or have dental malformations will use the services of a cosmetic dental professional.

General dentists can be considered the more practical of the two specialties. The general dentist makes sure that the teeth function the way that they are supposed to. A general dentist addresses any pain or discomfort that you may be having. A cosmetic dentist makes sure that you have the smile that you want. They don’t only concentrate on the teeth, but the gums and jaw as well. In many circumstances, a general dentist will be the one that refers you to a cosmetic dentist when the work needed is beyond his or her scope.