Are Asthetic Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry the Same?

People might think aesthetic dentistry and cosmetic dentistry are used interchangeably based on their names. While aesthetic and cosmetic dentistry is very similar, they have a few key differences. They use some of the same treatments to improve the condition of teeth, but aesthetic dentist work is slightly more innovative and incorporates newer treatments than cosmetic dentistry. 

Key differences between aesthetic and cosmetic dentistry 

Perhaps the biggest difference between the two forms of dentistry is that cosmetic dentistry often focuses solely on appearance. In other words, the end goal of cosmetic dentistry is to make teeth better looking and not healthier. Aesthetic dentistry, on the other hand, strives to improve the looks of teeth and oral health. Overall, aesthetics is a more comprehensive benefit to the teeth. 

The end goal of an aesthetic dentist is also different from cosmetic dentistry. While both forms attempt to improve the looks of teeth, an aesthetic dentist strives to improve their overall health. Here are some methods that an aesthetic dentist will use during a visit. 

• Regular dental cleanings to improve health as well as looks 
• Root canal removal serves the dual purpose of improving both health and aesthetics 
• Adding fillings and bridges which also helps the teeth in multiple ways 

Do I need to see an aesthetic dentist?

Aesthetic dentists specialize in a wide range of tooth remedies and oral health. While aesthetic dentist work is for everyone who wants to improve their health and smile, here are instances when it is especially helpful. 

• It can properly align the teeth while changing their shape and size to improve looks. Aligned teeth are also important to maintain oral health, as unaligned teeth can lead to overcrowding and cavities. 
• Uses the least invasive methods possible to fill gaps between teeth. 
• If a person struggles with an imperfect bite caused by crooked teeth, an aesthetic dentist will take the necessary measures to fix their bite. 
• It is common for teeth to become stained or discolored through the years. This type of dentistry uses noninvasive and healthy methods to improve the whiteness of the teeth. 
• Another common issue is for teeth to become chipped, broken, cracked, or suffer from decay. An aesthetic dentist will restore the health of these teeth, all while improving their looks. 
• And, of course, missing teeth will be replaced using measures such as implants to restore the smile. 

An aesthetic dentist is perfect for someone  who has any of these oral problems or simply want to improve their smile. 

Oral treatment options offered by aesthetic dentists 

Dental bonding 

Dental bonding is a process performed on people who have cracked or chipped teeth but whose teeth are not entirely missing. Bonding involves filling in cracks, gaps, and chipped areas with a resin that matches teeth perfectly. 

Dental veneers 

If someone's teeth are beyond repair through whitenings and cleanings, aesthetic dentists offer veneers as an option. Veneers are made from porcelain or other hard materials and colored a perfect white. They are then implanted on the fronts of the current teeth, giving them a fresh, white look. 

Dental implants 

If someone has one or more teeth that are completely missing, a dental implant is the only way to repair it. Dental implants are replacement teeth that look and function exactly like real teeth. 

Teeth whitening

However, if a person does not have any serious tooth issues and simply need good whitening, an aesthetic dentist can do the job. 

In addition to performing each of these treatments, aesthetic dentists always keep oral health at the forefront. They never do anything to make teeth look better while jeopardizing oral health. 

When should I call an aesthetic dentist instead of a general or cosmetic dentist? 

An aesthetic dentist has a patient's best interests regarding oral health and appearance. A cosmetic dentist can help with looks and a general dentist with health, but an aesthetic dentist can help with both. An aesthetic dentist kills two birds with one stone regarding tooth health and appearance. 

Understand more about aesthetic denistry 

While cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry is similar, the two practices are far from the same. They both work to improve the appearance of teeth, but aesthetic dentists put more emphasis on tooth health than cosmetic dentists do. Therefore, if someone wants their teeth to look great while being healthy and performing well, an aesthetic dentist is the way to go. Reach out to learn more about the many options available. 

Request an appointment here: https://cosmeticdentistdallastx.com or call Lalangas Family Dentistry at (972) 534-6008 for an appointment in our Dallas office.

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