Restorative Dental Care vs Cosmetic: 5 Big Differences

Did you know that there are nearly a dozen different types of dentists and other oral health doctors?

If you also factor in the hundreds of different dental procedures available, finding the right care for your unique needs can be confusing.

The most common dentistry issues are either restorative or cosmetic. Keep reading to learn about 5 differences between cosmetic and restorative dental care.

1. What Is Restorative Dentistry? Function Is Key

The main goal of restorative dentistry is to improve the health and functionality of a person's mouth. Cavities, gingivitis, and chipped or missing teeth are the most common issues that are addressed.

Although correcting these issues can lead to an improvement in someone's smile, that's not the purpose of restorative dentistry.

2. What Is Cosmetic Dentistry? Appearance Is Key

Cosmetic dentistry is all about helping the patient feel confident about their smile. Teeth whitening, teeth straightening, and dental implants are the most common cosmetic procedures.

While health is always a cosmetic dentist's concern, their goal is to do everything they can to give their patient the smile of their dreams.

3. Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry Services Can Overlap

There are plenty of procedures that are used in both restorative and cosmetic dentistry. The only difference between them is their main purpose.

If a person has a poor alignment that makes chewing or speaking difficult, then braces could improve their mouth function. In this case, braces would be a restorative procedure.

If a person feels insecure about an overbite or crooked teeth, braces can also be the perfect fix. Since the patient wants braces but doesn't need them, this would be considered a cosmetic procedure.

Other overlapping dental procedures can include crowns, bridges, and implants.

4. Cosmetic Services Can Take Longer Than Restorative Dental Care

Many restorative procedures can be completed within one dentist visit. Dentists can spot the problem and come up with a treatment plan that will resolve the issue immediately.

Since cosmetic dentistry relies on the patient's goals, it can take several dentist visits to get the results they envision. Teeth whitening is a good example of a lengthy cosmetic procedure. In order to preserve tooth health , the best whitening treatments involve subtle color lifts over the course of a few months.

5. Cosmetic Dental Can Be More Expensive Than Restorative Dental

All dentists are trained to handle restorative dental procedures. However, not all dentists have the skills or experience to offer the latest cosmetic procedures.

If you're interested in improving the appearance of your smile, it's important that you find a dentist who offers cosmetic services. If you're ever in doubt, just ask for a consultation so you can discuss your goals and learn about possible treatment plans.

Now that you know the difference between restorative dental care and cosmetic dentistry, you can get the results you deserve.

Do you live in Jensen Beach, FL? If so, Signature Smiles would love to help you with your cosmetic or restorative dentistry needs. Contact us to book your appointment and learn more about our services.