Cosmetic and restorative dentistry has a lot in common. Both are used to restore damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. Both can be done by a general dentist, too.
Nevertheless, how are the two distinguished if cosmetic and restorative dentistry are so similar? What is most notable about these differences that affect their prices? A simple explanation of cosmetic and restorative dentistry’s main differences and similarities is here to address these questions.
Cosmetic vs. Restorative Dentistry
The typical meaning of restorative dentistry is any dental process that focuses on fixing or restoring damaged oral structures. Cosmetic dentistry, nevertheless, focuses on visual appeals or the look of your smile. These two do overlap due to the fact that restorative procedures can likewise offer aesthetic benefits, so here is a side-by-side comparison.
Purpose of Treatment
As stated, restorative dentistry focuses on function. Restorative dental treatments deal with decaying, damaged, or missing teeth to restore proper function. In addition to these, it likewise safeguards oral and bone health. Usual procedures are root canals followed by a dental crown or dentures. These prosthetics are more inexpensive and practical for many people.
On the other hand, cosmetic dentistry is everything about your smile. Procedures intend to improve the teeth’s shape, color, or size. There are procedures, like veneers or laser gum removal, that do not do anything to improve function. Likewise, they can just be done when general oral health is remarkable.
Need and Urgency
Restorative dentistry is essential. Treatments should be done at the earliest possible time to prevent long-lasting damage such as drooping facial muscles and jaw bone degeneration. Restorative dental care also deals with discomfort, swelling, etc. Procedures and prosthetics like dental bridges can offer you the possibility to have good and lasting oral health.
Cosmetic dentistry treatments are more optional, indicating no urgency for the treatments. Most people choose to have treatments when they are not content with the appearance of their teeth. They get treatments done when they want to change their teeth’s color, shape, or alignment. Such treatments can be veneers, teeth whitening, and laser gum removal.
Materials Used
Materials utilized in restorative dentistry are durable since they need to withstand the exact same beating natural teeth go through. Likewise, there are more inexpensive choices for crowns, dentures, and bridges. Affordable types can be made of acrylic resin. You may click here to see different types of dentures if you are interested.
However, restorative dentistry can jump over to cosmetic dentistry. If there is a requirement for prosthetics, dentists can make these from porcelain or dental composite resin that can match the color and translucency of the patient’s natural teeth. This makes cosmetic procedures a little more expensive because of the materials and artistry that come with them.
Considering a Treatment?
Speak with your dentist initially. The dentist must look for cavities, chips and cracks, and gum health. If you desire cosmetic treatment, your dentist must address the other concerns. Restorative dentistry is the first step, whether you require fillings, root canals, etc. When your mouth is entirely healthy, you can explore cosmetic treatments and get the best smile you want.
