The Difference between a Cosmetic and Restorative Dentist in DeLand

You know you need a dentist, but which of their many services will give you what you need? You want to improve both your smile’s function and its appearance. Does that mean you need restorative or cosmetic dentistry? Although sometimes the two do overlap, restorative and cosmetic dentistry generally serve unique yet equally important purposes. In this post, find out when you need a cosmetic dentist and when you need a restorative dentist in DeLand and what services each can offer you.

Restorative Dentistry

As the name suggests, restorative dentistry consists of care that restores what has been lost in your teeth. When you suffer from tooth decay, damage from an injury, or tooth loss, restorative dentistry addresses the problem and gets your smile back to full oral health and function. In nearly all cases, performing necessary restorative dental care takes precedence over cosmetic procedures.

Fillings and Dental Crowns

If you have a decayed tooth, the infected portions need to be removed, leaving incomplete tooth structure behind. Tooth-colored fillings reinforce the remaining tooth and blend in seamlessly with the color of the enamel. For extensive decay or damage to the top portion of a tooth, a dental crown provides strength for an otherwise vulnerable tooth. It enables you to resume using that tooth for chewing and speaking.

Tooth Replacement

Sometimes a tooth needs to be extracted, but that doesn’t mean that you have to be stuck with a giant gap in your smile. You can choose between three options to fill in your missing tooth—a dental bridge, denture, or dental implant. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages that you need to weigh to make the right decision for you. Regardless of the replacement option you go with, you can enjoy the health benefits of having a complete smile.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Unlike restorative dentistry, the primary goal of cosmetic dentistry is to enhance the look of your smile and boost your self-esteem. As a result, getting cosmetic dental treatment often leads to more confidence in showing your smile and consequently potentially better mood. To qualify for most cosmetic procedures, you need to be in good oral health and discuss your smile goals with your dentist.

Teeth Whitening

Time and darkly pigmented foods and drinks can stain your teeth and make them appear yellow or dull. Luckily, you can get teeth whitening through your cosmetic dentist in DeLand. Whether you choose in-office or take-home treatment, you get access to powerful, effective whitening gel that can brighten your smile by up to ten shades! You can’t get those dramatic results from over-the-counter whitening solutions.

Porcelain Veneers

One main advantage of getting porcelain veneers is that it can address multiple flaws all at once. So if your teeth are discolored and misshapen, you can correct both with perfectly natural-looking porcelain veneers. These thin sheets of ceramic material are durable and resist stains very well, helping you retain a bright, youthful smile.

In the end, you don’t need to determine your needs or your smile goals on your own. When you find a dentist that can help you with both restorative and cosmetic dental services, you can receive the care you need and want all under one roof. That way, you can get a healthy, happy smile that you’re proud to show off. To get started with either cosmetic or restorative dental treatment, contact your dentist in DeLand.

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Cowell has been practicing dentistry in DeLand for over 20 years. In his practice, he emphasizes a conservative approach to treatment, only recommending what’s necessary and what each patient wants to accomplish with their smile. In addition, he and his staff do their best to respect their patients’ time by staying exactly on schedule. To make an appointment with him, you can call (386) 734-8585 or click here.