Cosmetic and general dentistry are 2 branches of dentistry that offer a range of treatments that can enhance the appearance and function of your teeth and help improve your overall oral health.
General and cosmetic dentistry work together to support healthy teeth and gums, from dental cleanings to crowns.
General Dentistry
Dental care is a crucial aspect of maintaining your overall health. Good oral hygiene practices and regular visits to your dentist can prevent a host of dental problems from developing. General dentistry is the foundation of comprehensive dental care, providing preventive, restorative, and emergency services that help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Exams & Cleanings
Regular dental check-ups are the cornerstone of good oral hygiene. During your appointment, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums for signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral and general health issues. Detecting dental problems early can prevent them from worsening, reducing the need for more extensive procedures.
Dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar build-up that can cause tooth decay or gum disease. By removing these harmful substances, your dentist and hygienist can help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Crowns & Bridges
Crowns and bridges are restorative dental care procedures that help fix damaged or missing teeth. Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that fit over the entire surface of a damaged tooth, restoring its shape and function. Bridges are dental appliances that anchor onto existing teeth to fill gaps caused by missing teeth.
These treatments help restore the functionality and look of your mouth and can help prevent further damage to your oral health.
Restorative Dental Care
Restorative dental care involves repairing or replacing damaged teeth using various techniques, including:
- Fillings
- Root canals
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Dental implants
- Inlays and onlays
These procedures help protect your teeth from further decay or infection, maintain healthy teeth, and improve oral health.
Emergency Dental Care
Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s essential to have access to dental care when they do occur. General dentists offer emergency dental care, providing timely treatment for severe pain, infections, or trauma.
Having a regular dentist you can trust and turn to when dental emergencies happen is crucial for maintaining your overall dental health.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, so it’s no wonder many people turn to cosmetic dentistry to enhance the appearance of their teeth.
Cosmetic dentistry offers a wide range of services that address dental issues, including stained, crooked, or missing teeth.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. It uses a whitening agent to lighten the colour of your teeth. It addresses stains caused by:
- Plaque and tartar build-up
- Tobacco use
- Food and beverages
There are 2 types of teeth whitening: in-office and take-home. In-office whitening provides immediate results, while take-home whitening kits from your dentist take several weeks to achieve the same effect.
Orthodontics
Orthodontics treats dental issues related to misaligned teeth or an uneven bite, including:
- Underbite
- Overbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
It involves braces or functional appliances that slowly shift your teeth into the proper position over time. Aside from traditional metal braces, orthodontics also offers more aesthetic options that blend better with your teeth.
Invisalign
Invisalign uses clear, removable trays rather than fixed appliances or braces for a discreet orthodontic option. Invisalign can correct many of the same issues as other orthodontic methods. Wearing the aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day and switching your aligners as directed can provide good results.
Dentures
Dentures are an excellent option for those with missing teeth to restore their smile. There are a few types, including:
- Complete dentures
- Partial dentures
- Overdentures
Dentures can be permanent or removable prosthetic teeth and replace one or several missing teeth.
Veneers
Veneers are thin shells placed over the surface of your teeth to correct the appearance of minor cosmetic issues like:
- Chips
- Cracks
- Gaps
- Stains
They are durable, long-lasting, and resemble the natural look of your teeth.
Benefits of Cosmetic & General Dentistry
The benefits of cosmetic and general dentistry are numerous, including:
- Improved oral health and function
- Prevention of dental problems
- Treatment of existing dental problems
- Improved overall health
Get Comprehensive Dental Care
Both general and cosmetic dentistry have a hand in keeping your mouth healthy and your smile radiant. Schedule an appointment at Shin Dentistry for your oral health care needs.
