Dentistry is a medicine branch that focuses on studying, diagnosing, and treating diseases or conditions affecting the oral cavity and related structures—dentistry branches out into many different fields, including general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. Confusion prevails around the difference between the two.
General dentistry deals with the treatment and prevention of oral diseases, while Cosmetic dentistry is elective dental procedures that enhance the smile. While there is a significant difference between the two branches, there could be an overlap between the two in certain areas. While some dentists may focus only on a particular branch, whereas few dentist in Preston deals with cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry.
What is General Dentistry?
General dentistry is the Dentistry division that focuses on the treatment and prevention of diseases associated with the oral cavity or the related structures. General dentistry primarily concentrates on medical concerns. You can consult a General Dentist for cavities, tooth sensitivity, bleeding, and other problems.
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
A smile is an integral part of our personality and helps create a lasting impact. You will visit a cosmetic dentist to enhance the appearance of the teeth and gums. Teeth discolouration, misshaped, crooked and non-aligned teeth are some concerns you will see a cosmetic dentist. A cosmetic dentist may not focus on the disease aspects, but they are qualified and consider your overall health while suggesting a solution.
What is the significance of Cosmetic Dentistry?
From a health point of view, quite a few cosmetic procedures could be considered non-essential. But they work wonders in enhancing a person’s look and boost the patient’s confidence. Cosmetic procedures like orthodontic procedures make it easier for individuals to clean and floss their teeth, thereby preventing future tooth decay.
Are the Two Disciplines Independent on Each Other?
Now that we know the general dentistry focuses on medical concerns while cosmetic dentistry takes a cosmetic approach, it is important to know often, these two branches overlap. For instance, A general dentist may prescribe a tooth extraction to prevent tooth decay, but a cosmetic dentist comes in the picture to do the prosthetics once the operation is done.
All dentists are initially qualified as general dentists, which means that every cosmetic dentist is qualified to take care of your medical concerns. Likewise, many general dentists provide cosmetic procedures.
Conclusion
As a standard guideline, visit a general dentist for tooth decay, bleeding of gums, tooth sensitivity, and other problems. You can see a cosmetic surgeon for aesthetics-related concerns like a broken tooth, chipped tooth, gaps in teeth, and discoloration of teeth. Since there is an overlap in these branches’ functions, whichever doctor you visit should be able to address your concern. Large clinics may have a panel of doctors from different departments who can look into your case and work out the best solution for you.
