Cosmetic and restorative dentistry has a lot in common. Both are used to restore damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. Both can be performed by a general dentist, too.
However, how are the two distinguished if cosmetic and restorative dentistry are so similar? What is most significant with these distinctions that affect their prices? A straightforward explanation of cosmetic and restorative dentistry’s main distinctions 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 repairing or restoring damaged oral structures. Cosmetic dentistry, nevertheless, focuses on aesthetics or the look of your smile. These two overlap since restorative treatments can also offer aesthetic benefits, so here is a side-by-side comparison.
Purpose of Treatment
As said, restorative dentistry focuses on function. Restorative dental treatments work on decaying, damaged, or missing teeth to restore proper function. In addition to these, it likewise safeguards oral and bone health. Typical treatments are root canals followed by dental crowns or dentures. These prosthetics are more affordable and practical for many people. You may find more info on this link.
On the other hand, cosmetic dentistry is everything about your smile. Procedures intend to enhance the teeth’s contour, color, or size. There are treatments, like veneers or laser gum removal, that do not do anything to enhance function. Likewise, they can just be done when general oral health is remarkable.
Need and Urgency
Restorative dentistry is important. Procedures must 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 resolves issues such as discomfort, swelling, etc. Procedures and prosthetics can allow you to have great and lasting oral health.
Cosmetic dentistry treatments are more elective, 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 procedures can be veneers, teeth whitening, and laser gum removal.
Materials Used
Materials used in restorative dentistry are durable because they need to endure the exact same beating natural teeth go through. There are more budget-friendly choices for crowns, dentures, and bridges. Reasonable types can be made from acrylic resin. If you are looking for more information on these or same day dentures in Gonzales or other areas in LA, you may check online for trusted dentists.
Nevertheless, restorative dentistry can jump over to cosmetic dentistry. If there is a need 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 slightly more pricey because of the materials and artistry that come with them.
Considering a Procedure?
Consult with your dentist first. The dentist must look for cavities, chips and cracks, and gum health. Your dentist should deal with the other problems if you desire cosmetic treatment. Restorative dentistry is the primary step, whether you require fillings, root canals, etc. Once your mouth is completely healthy, you can explore cosmetic treatments and get your desired smile.
