Dallas Dentist Explains Cosmetic and General Dentistry

Written by Dr. Lin on Oct 11, 2011

It can be overwhelming for dental patients today to select a dentist who will not only make them feel comfortable but, just as importantly, one who can provide the range of services that will enable them to have “one-stop” convenience and avoid the hassle of running to different dental practices to receive the services and treatments they need and desire. Today’s blog will focus on the relationship between general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.

General dentists are dedicated to preventing and treating oral disease such as cavities and gum disease. If you visit a general dentist and a problem is diagnosed, he or she will assess the best way to restore the tooth involved.

Cosmetic dentists perform elective dental procedures developed specifically to make your smile more attractive. Cosmetic dentistry procedures available include teeth whitening, tooth-colored fillings, Invisalign invisible braces, veneers, inlays, and dental crowns.

Dallas, TX Cosmetic Dentist offers both general and cosmetic dentistry procedures. In some cases, there is a restorative procedure will include a cosmetic element. For example, if one of our patients comes in after sustaining a chipped front tooth, the tooth will need to be restored to prevent decay. Because of the chip, the tooth is also not as sound structurally, so it is more vulnerable to further damage. In this hypothetical case, the tooth also affects the overall appearance of the smile. Depending on the extent and type of damage, there are several restorative options. Dental bonding, porcelain veneers (or Lumineers) and crowns are all used to repair a damaged tooth.

As you can see, there is not always a definitive line between general and cosmetic dentistry. At our Dallas, TX Dental Office, our team provides full spectrum of preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental procedures in a state-of-the-art, comfortable environment.