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What Is the Difference Between Restorative Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry?

a dental professional exam a woman patients teeth and discusses restorative dentistry examples to the patient

Are you looking to improve the appearance of your smile? Do you have some dental issues that need to be addressed? In the world of dentistry, there are two broad categories that dental procedures fall into, restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. While both aim to improve the look and function of your teeth, they serve two different purposes.

Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD provides cosmetic and restorative dentistry services in Hanover, MD, that are tailored to your individual needs. Our experienced team of dentists is here to help you find the best solutions for your unique dental care requirements. Call us today at 443.733.6879 to schedule an appointment to see how we can help improve both your oral health and smile and to discover cosmetic and restorative dentistry examples.

Examples of Restorative Dentistry

Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing or replacing damaged teeth to restore their function and improve oral health. Some restorative dentistry examples include:

Dental Fillings

To restore decayed or damaged teeth, a dentist may use dental fillings made from materials like porcelain, resin, or amalgam to fill cavities.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial teeth that are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. In addition to restoring your teeth, dental implants can also help protect weakened teeth from further damage.

Dental Crowns

Crowns are caps that are placed over damaged teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. In addition to restoring your teeth, dental crowns can also help protect weakened teeth from further damage.

Examples of Cosmetic Dentistry

On the other hand, cosmetic dentistry is focused on enhancing the look of your teeth and improving your smile’s aesthetic appeal. Some of the procedures that are considered cosmetic dentistry include:

Teeth Whitening

This procedure involves removing stains and discoloration from your teeth, giving you a brighter and cleaner smile.

Dental Veneers

These are thin shells that are attached to the front surface of your teeth to correct issues like gaps, chips, cracks, and discoloration.

Invisalign

A popular teeth straightening option that utilizes clear aligners to discreetly shift teeth into their ideal position.

Understanding the Benefits of Restorative Dentistry vs. Cosmetic Dentistry

Both of these services can offer numerous benefits, but it is essential to understand the difference between them in order to make an informed decision.

The benefits of restorative dentistry are numerous, including:

  • Improved oral health – Restorative dental procedures can save teeth from being lost and can also prevent oral infections from spreading.
  • Restored function – Restorative dentistry can improve your dental function by replacing missing or damaged teeth.
  • Long-term results – Restorative dental procedures are designed to last longer and can provide a more permanent solution to dental issues without the need for frequent repairs

The benefits of cosmetic dentistry include:

  • Increased confidence – Cosmetic dentistry can help improve your self-esteem by giving you a beautiful smile you are proud of.
  • Quick results – Many cosmetic dental procedures are fast and can often be completed in a single appointment, providing instant results.
  • Non-invasive – Most cosmetic procedures are minimally invasive, making them ideal for those who want to avoid more invasive or surgical treatments.

At Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD, we understand the importance of having a beautiful smile. That’s why our experienced team of dentists is here to provide you with the high-quality restorative and cosmetic dental care you deserve.

Call Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD for Restorative Dentistry in Hanover, MD

Both restorative and cosmetic dentistry are essential in maintaining good oral health and getting a beautiful smile that you can be proud of. While both categories aim to improve your teeth’s appearance and function, the main difference between them is their primary focus. When determining which option is best for you, it is important to consider your oral health needs and aesthetic goals.

Consult a dentist at Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD, for help determining the best course of action that works for you. Whether you choose restorative or cosmetic dentistry, you will surely enjoy the benefits of a beautiful and healthy smile. Contact us today at 443.733.6879 to schedule your appointment or to learn more about cosmetic and restorative dentistry examples.