Dentist Handling Dental Tools

Can A General Dentist Perform Cosmetic Dentistry?

General and cosmetic dentists provide similar procedures, including teeth whitening, veneers, and other dental restorations. But can general dentists perform cosmetic dentistry? Are they qualified to provide restorative treatments? Today, we’ll explore how both cosmetic and general dentists provide their services, their differences, and what you should consider when visiting your dentist for cosmetic treatment. 

Can A General Dentist Perform Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures? 

In short, yes, because the training required to perform restorations is part of every dentist’s education. All dentists can help you decide on the proper cosmetic treatment and perform it efficiently. But despite this, there are some significant differences between cosmetic and general dentists:

  • General Dentists: General dentists manage patients’ dental care through teeth cleanings, routine exams, and other preventative measures. General dentists primarily focus on preventative measures to help improve their patient’s outlook on their oral health, using restorative treatments as a secondary measure to care for their health. While general dentists can perform restorative and cosmetic procedures, general dentists are meant to act as a stepping stone for life-long improvements in your oral health.
  • Cosmetic Dentists: Cosmetic dentists specialize in restorative treatments, including veneers, implants, crowns, and bridges. Cosmetic dentists have additional training and degrees in cosmetic dental care and must be certified to be called cosmetic dentists. In these cases, patients often go to cosmetic dentists to treat more complex problems and receive more advanced treatments, such as smile makeovers, gum contouring, and more. 

These dentists have different focuses on dentistry, and both are invaluable to dentistry. Many specialties offer services to help patients receive customized, personalized care based on their specific needs. While both can perform teeth whitening procedures, they will perform those procedures based on their knowledge and experience, meaning it’s essential to find the dentist you need most according to what they can provide. This means all cosmetic procedures, such as crowns and implants, often depend on the dentist’s experience, the patient’s requirements, and the overall standards of care set by their education. 

All restorative procedures have a cosmetic element because patients always seek to have a healthy smile and a beautiful one. If you’re faced with advanced problems that prevent your general dentist from treating your teeth, a cosmetic dentist can provide a wide selection of cosmetic treatments to improve your smile’s appearance. However, your general dentist will be able to perform all the necessary restorative treatments to keep your smile healthy. Most importantly, schedule an appointment for a routine exam! 

Contact Us And Learn About Our Cosmetic Dental Procedures Today!

If you want cosmetic dental treatments in Granbury, TX, come to St. Clair Dental PLLC! Dr. Maureen Karl and her team can provide comprehensive dental care services for all her patients at our practice. To learn more about your options for cosmetic treatments, receive a dental checkup, or get referred to a specialist, call (817) 910-2880 to schedule an appointment. 

Maureen Karl, DDS, FAGD
As a graduate of the University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine in 2004, Dr. Maureen Karl continues to hone her craft through continuing education. Dental patients throughout the Granbury, TX area know they can rely on our practice for skilled dental care using the latest practices.