Dental Office in Framingham: Differences Between General and Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental Office in Framingham

Dental Office in Framingham | Two of the most popular fields within dentistry are general and cosmetic dentistry.

Typically, patients who need dental work like filling cavities will be visiting a general dentist who offers basic and preventative dental procedures.

If you are more concerned about how your teeth appear, you will likely be making an appointment with a cosmetic dentist. However, there is some overlap between the two fields, so it is not as clear-cut as it may seem at first.

If you have any questions, contact our dental office in Framingham to schedule a consultation. New patients are welcome!

Differences

In brief, cosmetic dentist has the same amount of training as your general dentist, but with some added education and training.

For example, teeth whitening requires professional dental cleaning. Fortunately, our offce can complete both procedures.

Dental office in Framingham | dental patient smiling

Or if you need a chipped tooth repaired, you may visit a cosmetic dentist to achieve a great aesthetic result. However, X-rays are needed before your procedure. Nonetheless, your dental provider will further advise.

Example of a General Dentistry Procedure

Our dental office in Framingham offers dental fillings. Fillings are a common procedure.

In short, dental fillings are recommended for tooth decay. Tooth decay should be treated quickly. Infection can occur.

Moreover, you would need an extraction at that point, followed by a tooth replacement.

Your general dentist removes the tooth decay. He or she further prepares the tooth for the material. The filling prevents further damage to the tooth.

Lastly, dental crowns are used to protect the tooth after the procedure. Crowns fully restore the tooth’s appearance and function.

Example of a Cosmetic Dentistry Procedure

Having your teeth whitened is an extremely popular type of cosmetic dentistry. For instance, teeth whitening is great for improving tooth discoloration. By the way, our dental office in Framingham offers many cosmetic treatments including teeth whitening.

Although there are several different types of whitening treatments available, the basic idea of a professional whitening involves the application of a hydrogen peroxide gel that does the actual whitening.

The treatment can be further amplified through the use of a special light to intensify the effects of the whitening gel.

Common General Dentistry Procedures

  • Dental fillings
  • Root canal procedures
  • Dental sealants
  • Crowns

Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

  • Teeth whitening
  • Porcelain veneers
  • Dental bonding
  • Implants
  • Dental bridges
  • Dentures

Contact Our Dental Office in Framingham

In summary, there are some key differences between the two types of dentistry, but there is also a good deal of overlap. Both fields rely upon each other to achieve a good result for the patient.

If you are ever in doubt about what dental procedure qualifies as a general or cosmetic dentistry treatment, just reach out to our dental office in Framingham.

Learn more about general and cosmetic dentistry by contacting our dental office in Framingham. We offer an array of dental treatments to assist the entire family.

Moreover, new patients are welcome! Call (508) 620-1170 or request an appointment online. See you soon!