If you’re curious about the differences between cosmetic and restorative dentistry, read this guide from Aloe Dental Wellness.
What Are 3 Differences Between Cosmetic And Restorative Dentistry?
Cosmetic and restorative dentistry can be similar. Both forms of dentistry aim to improve damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. However, the two are distinct in several ways:
- Necessary vs. Optional
- Different Treatment Goals
- The Dental Materials Used Are Different
Necessary vs. Optional: Which Is Which?
Restorative dental surgery is performed to repair broken, decayed, or missing teeth. Most people seek dental treatment because they have a problem with their teeth. Often, people with toothache, swelling, or bleeding seek dental care to relieve these problems through restorative dental care.
Cosmetic dentistry, on the other hand, is optional as people use these treatments to change the color, shape, size, and spacing of teeth. Most people seek cosmetic dentistry because they are dissatisfied with how their smile looks, not because they have any discomfort. So, while restorative dentistry must be done to relieve symptoms and restore teeth, cosmetic dentistry does not have the same urgency.
What Are The Goals Of Cosmetic And Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry aims to restore function, while cosmetic dentistry aims to improve appearance. Restorative dentistry focuses on restoring decayed, damaged, or missing teeth to maintain normal function and oral health. An example of a commonly performed restoration procedure is a root canal followed by a crown. In this case, a crown is used to protect the remaining tooth structure from future decay or damage.
Typically, when a crown is used as a cosmetic dental treatment, its purpose is to improve the contour, color, or size of the tooth. Since cosmetic dentistry is primarily concerned with visual aesthetics, there are also treatments that are considered purely cosmetic, including professional teeth whitening and dental veneers. Because none of these treatments improve the function of the teeth, they can only be done on overall healthy teeth.
The Dental Materials Used Are Different
Another difference between restorative and cosmetic dentistry is the type of dental material used to make the restorations. Dental restorations for restorative purposes are usually made of durable and affordable materials rather than aesthetically pleasing ones. An example of this is amalgam fillings, which consist of a mixture of metals that can be seen from afar.
Cosmetic dental materials, on the other hand, are both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Dental restorations for cosmetic purposes are often chosen for their color and translucent properties, which allow the restoration to blend into the surrounding teeth. An example of this is a composite or tooth-colored filling made with a dental composite resin that can be colored to match the remaining tooth structure.
What Dental Treatments Are Right For My Smile?
As you can see, despite their similarities, restorative and cosmetic dentistry actually have some key differences, including treatment motivation, purpose, and use of dental materials. Everyone deserves a beautiful and healthy smile that they are proud to share.
The source of any dissatisfaction varies from patient to patient, and the best procedure often depends on the condition of your smile and the results you want. If you’re wondering what dental treatments are right for you, Dr. Cadavid can help you decide which cosmetic or restorative treatment can improve your smile.
At Aloe Dental Wellness in Goleta, CA, we are happy to provide general, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry services in a brand-new office. Aloe Dental Wellness is glad to serve UCSB students and staff and proud to offer services in Spanish as well as English. If you’re ready for a regular check-up or to invest in cosmetic or restorative dentistry, call us today at 805-454-7727.
