Restorative Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry Similarities and Differences

Restorative Dentistry vs. Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental care should start as early as the first month from birth. Caring for your teeth and oral health, in general, doesn’t necessarily end with regular brushing and flossing at home. It requires more than just brushing and flossing to keep away the harmful bacteria that attacks and destroys the teeth.

To achieve optimum dental and oral health it is crucial to observe your regular dental visits without skipping. It is during these visits the dentist can note any dental problem at an early stage and address and adjust accordingly.

What is restorative dentistry?

Restorative dentistry is when periodontal disease is identified, managed and prevented from recurring again. Restorative dentistry in many cases usually starts during the regular visits. A dentist might locate tartar formation on your teeth which he/she will clean using a dental brush and toothpaste and later on conduct preventive measures to stop it from recurring.

When you have a cavity in your tooth, the dentist will clean and inject filling to the gap to prevent further damage. When a tooth is destroyed and in need of extraction, the dentist will guide you on the various types of tooth replacement.

In short, restorative dentistry includes:

  • Implants
  • Fillings
  • Crowns
  • Bridges
  • Veneers
  • Root canal
  • Dentures
  • Extractions

These are some of the most common restorative dentistry in any standard dental clinic.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry focuses more on the appearance and to some extended treatment of the tooth. It also improves the appearance of your mouth and smile as well. It is done professionally by a dentist who specializes in cosmetic procedures, one who deeply understands the dental structures and treatments involved.

Cosmetic dentistry can be restorative to some extent. An example is when you want an inlay or only done on your decayed tooth. You’ll be restoring a decayed tooth back to its original structure, but this time you are free to choose a material of your choice.

Cosmetic dentistry is a part of restorative dentistry to some extent but not always. It is applicable during the following dental procedures:

  • Composite bonding
  • Onlays and inlays
  • Veneers
  • Implants

Restorative and cosmetic dentistry are more related than different. This is evident when patients are having corrective procedures done on their teeth. They consider the appearance the most instead of the functionality and overall health of the teeth. In this era most restorative dentistry clinics have incorporated cosmetic aspects of dental procedures to meet the rising demands of patients.

If you have any additional questions about restorative or cosmetic dentistry, please contact Manhattan Dental Care Studio today. We’ll schedule your consultation and get your oral health back on track, leaving you with a seriously good-looking smile.

Dr. Erick Gutierrez

Author Dr. Erick Gutierrez

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