What is the Difference Between a Dentist and a Cosmetic Dentist?

In the most general terms, a dentist focuses on oral health and hygiene. A cosmetic dentist focuses on the beautification of the smile. General dentistry involves preventive visits for routine exams, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants. It also includes treatment for decay, infection, and discomfort, such as dental fillings, root canal therapy, and tooth extractions.

Cosmetic dentistry may include procedures such as tooth whitening and porcelain veneers, as well as comprehensive services like a complete smile makeover.

Is There Crossover Between General and Cosmetic Dental Services?

General dentists may offer some services that have cosmetic benefits. These include topical tooth whitening and tooth-colored fillings. They may also offer restorative services that can improve the appearance of the smile such as dental bridges and porcelain dental crowns.

Cosmetic dentists offer services that often serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. For example, dental veneers can treat minor bite issues and protect teeth that are chipped or cracked, as can dental bonding. While a smile makeover may involve several procedures that address issues like missing teeth, bite abnormalities, and receding gums that can all have oral health consequences when left unaddressed.

How do I Choose Between a Dentist and a Cosmetic Dentist?

Your needs should dictate the type of dentist you see. If you are looking for a routine cleaning and examination, choose a general dentist. If you are looking for solutions to tooth staining or a crooked smile, see a cosmetic dentist. If you are looking for a dentist who can serve both needs, choose a dentist who has trained in both general and cosmetic services.

Dr. Elisa Mello and Dr. Ramin Tabib are both experienced in general and cosmetic dentistry. This enables them to meet the various oral health, hygiene, and beauty needs of every patient they see. As a multidisciplinary dental practice, Drs. Mello and Tabib are able to provide a single office at which all of your dental needs can be met, allowing you to work with a dentist who has spent time with you and understands your unique needs and desires.

In addition to cosmetic and general dentistry services, our Manhattan dentists offer advanced treatments such as:

• Implant dentistry
• Neuromuscular dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Sleep apnea and snoring solutions

Utilizing advanced technology and offering comfortable options like gentle sedation, our dentists have created a practice where all of your oral health and beauty needs can be met, helping to save you time, increase convenience, and build a strong and lasting relationship with a dental team that truly cares about your happiness.

If you live in or around Manhattan and are looking for a comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry practice, please call NYC Smile Design at 212-452-3344 to schedule a consultation today. Dr. Mello and Dr. Tabib welcome patients from all areas of New York City as well as surrounding communities in Connecticut and New Jersey.