Dental Restoration San Diego

Dental restoration is is a set of dental procedures that are done if you have missing, decayed, weakened or fractured teeth. There are many different cosmetic dentistry practices that can help fix a wide range of dental concerns, whether you have an infected tooth, cracked teeth or are in need of full mouth restoration.

What’s the impact of dental restorations?

Restorations such placing a dental bridge, dental implants or dental crowns can help completely restore missing teeth, or help retain the healthy part of patient’s teeth that still remain. Dental restorations can not only improve oral health, but make sure further damage is minimized. Better yet, it can provide patients with improved confidence knowing a great smile is achievable, no matter the extent of their dental damage.

What kinds of problems are treated with dental restorations?

There are several types of dental restoration procedures a dental office is able to handle. For example, decay and deterioration may be handled differently, depending on the patient. Sometimes partial dentures can be the answer, while in other cases repair may be approached removing an infected tooth, deciding to implement a few root canals, or inserting a bridge. When it comes to achieving a beautiful smile — cosmetic dentists have a lot of tricks up their sleeves.

What are the types of dental restorations?

Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of dental work and dental restoration procedures:

Fillings

Almost everyone has a filling as fillings are the most common type of dental restoration. When you have a cavity or have minor tooth decay, a dentist will fill that cavity — or hole — in your teeth with a material to stop the spread of the decay. Traditionally, fillings were made from gold and silver amalgam. But today it’s much more common for a dentist to use tooth-colored plastic and composite resin fillings.

• Composite resins (white filling): These are a contemporary material used for dental fillings, and are now the preferred medium. Not only do they blend with the natural color of your teeth, unlike metal they don’t expand or contract (which can also lead to damaged teeth). They’re just as durable and effective as the old school metal fillings.

• Glass ionomer. This approach functions more like a sealant, but is opaque (typically it’s not tooth colored) and protects from further decay for other teeth.

• Resin-modified glass ionomer. This is the longer-lasting, more natural option as the resin matches tooth enamel better and typically lasts a bit longer than glass ionomer.

Bridges & Crowns

Bridges, or what’s sometimes called a “fixed partial denture” help replace damaged teeth by creating a bridge between missing teeth. These bridges are adhered within the mouth by crowns — tooth-shaped caps which are placed over a tooth to restore its natural appearance and strength. Crowns are typically cemented permanently into place.

During a consultation, the dentist will help you decide which type of dental bridge would work best. Some of the most common include:

• Traditional Dental Bridge. Here, one dental crown is adhered to the surrounding teeth with either a fake tooth or a set of teeth in the between. Here, the dental crowns act as an anchor while the fake tooth or teeth bridge the gap. A benefit of traditional bridges is their strength.

• Maryland Bonded Bridge. This is almost identical to the traditional bridge except a metal or porcelain structure is used for the framework and adheres to the back of the teeth instead of the side. This is a more affordable approach but the framework can sometimes vary in strength and occasionally causes discoloration.

• Cantilever Dental Bridge. This option uses one anchor tooth to adhere the bridge to the mouth, however this is often not as stable and can only be used to repair gaps toward the front of the mouth.

• Implant-Supported Bridge. This approach is very similar to the traditional bridge, but instead of crowns, dental implants are used to support the bridgework. This is a very durable approach, however it’s much more invasive and requires longer recovery.

In many of these procedures, there may need to be an even reduction around the damaged tooth so that the crown will restore the size and shape of the tooth. This can sometimes be a long process and may involve having an impression made of your teeth while a a temporary crown is placed in the meantime. The good news is, many cosmetic dentist offices have CEREC technology which can fabricate a crown while you’re in-office!

Implants

Made from titanium or a titanium amalgam, implants act as anchoring posts which are often placed into the bone of the jaw where a tooth, or multiple teeth are missing. Think of implants as artificial “roots” that hold replacement teeth (as we discussed above with crowns and bridges) in place.

Dental implant types include:

• Endosteal. With an endosteal implant, the artificial root is drilled and then placed directly into the jawbone.

• Subperiosteal. With subperiosteal implants, the artificial root is placed either on or above the jawbone. Usually, this is the option which is chosen when the jaw bone is not strong or healthy enough to withstand the drilling an endosteal implant requires.

Dentures

Unlike most bridgework, dentures are a removable replacement for missing or damaged teeth. Whether your teeth have decayed due to gum disease or you’ve sustained an injury, dentures can help mask the missing or damaged teeth so you can feel more confident about your smile. Your dentist can help you decide whether you may need either complete dentures which replace all the teeth OR partial dentures which are adhered to some of the remaining healthy teeth with metal clasps.

There are three types of dentures:

• Conventional. This is a removeable option which can be used after infected teeth are removed and the surrounding tissue has healed.

• Immediate. Also removeable there’s no wait to enjoy your new look with immediate dentures.

• Overdenture. An overdenture is used when some healthy teeth remain. Typically, this will fit over the remaining teeth.

Veneers

If you’ve struggled with yellowing and you want to not only whiten but change the shape of your teeth, veneers are a procedure which cover your teeth with a thin, porcelain or composite resin shell that correct and perfect the look of your natural teeth. With proper care veneers can last between five and fifteen years.

Veneers help with:

• Unusually small teeth

• Uneven or chipped teeth

• Discoloration

Bonding

Discoloration or cracking can also be repaired using a tooth bonding method in which your dentist applies a color-matched, composite resin material to your tooth. The dentist can then mold and shape the resin before setting it with an ultraviolet light. Unfortunately, this option is not quite as hardy as a veneer and may need to be repaired more consistently.

Enamel Restorative Dentistry

While damaged tooth enamel can’t be restored there are some things that can be done to help strengthen the enamel. Dentists can use sealants to help prevent enamel loss or damage. These are typically adhered to each individual tooth and hardened in place with ultraviolet light.

Teeth Whitening

Usually, in-office professional whitening treatments can be completed in one or more short appointments. This process includes the application of a whitening agent which is left on for 15- to 30-minute increments.

There are a few types of in-office whitening treatments:

• Gel whitening. A high concentration of hydrogen peroxide gel is applied to the teeth by a syringe.

• Laser whitening. A hydrogen peroxide mixture is applied and then combined with a high-intensity light (like LED, UV or halogen.) Once the mixture has been put on your teeth, a light — which is applied by a lamp or laser device — shines over your teeth and sets the mixture.

• Take-home trays. Typically, this option begins in the dentist chair, but then requires the patient to continue the process at home. With a professional take-home-tray, your dentist will make a custom impression of your teeth. Because this tray will fit your mouth perfectly, it will typically give you better results than drugstore options. Often, the take-home whitening solution is not quite as potent as the in-office mixture to help protect your gum and other tissues from irritation, so while it may take a bit longer to get the same results, it’s important to stay diligent.

What does recovery & aftercare look like?

For most restorative dental procedures you’ll need to be mindful of your aftercare. Of course, what you’ll need to do will depend on the dental work you’ve had done and will be personalized, by your dentist, to your unique needs.

Take good care of your teeth (both organic or newly made for you!) by cleaning and flossing them every day, and going to all your follow-up appointments. Don’t forget to care for your gums, tongue and the roof of your mouth!

When to talk with a professional

It’s important to stay ahead of dental problems by seeing your dentist regularly. If you have painful teeth and gums, or notice any signs of infection, it’s time to give your dentist a call. The team at San Diego Art of Dentistry are master clinicians who understand the unique needs of comprehensive cosmetic dental care.

Their friendly staff can help set you up with your first visit. Give them a call today to schedule an appointment and before you know it you’ll be able to realize the beautiful smile of your dreams.

 

About San Diego Art of Dentistry

Located in San Diego, CA, the Art of Dentistry dentists are consistently recognized as top in their field by their peers.  The Art of Dentistry prides itself on their highly experienced and skilled staff. They understand that, just like other artists, each specialist has their own unique talents. To take full advantage of that, they have developed a team of top specialists to work collaboratively and provide you with comprehensive care that results in a magnificent smile. They offer target skillsets, advanced technology, customized treatment plans, comprehensive restorative dentistry as well as general dentistry, and much more. 

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San Diego Invisalign

If you’re looking to straigthen your teeth, but are worried about the hassle of traditional metal braces, we have some good news: straighter teeth don’t have to mean clunky, difficult to clean or months of hiding your hardware.

If you’re looking for comestic dentistry procedures like this, San Diego Art of Dentistry can work with your dental insurance to make sure you can acheive the straight teeth of your dreams.

What are Invisalign Braces?

While many have heard about Invisalign® as an alternative to braces, many don’t fully understand how it functions in practice. Invisalign® is a clear, medical-grade plastic that’s nearly imperctible. But not only are they nearly invisible, they are also custom-fit for max comfort and ease. Whether it’s crooked teeth, misalignment, gaps or overcrowding, Invisalign can help correct all of the same issues traditional braces can…but without all the hassle and discomfort. 

Traditional Braces vs. Invisalign

Invisalign treatment makes it easier than ever before with a more modern approach to orthodonitc treatment. For those that had to undergo orthodotic treatment the old fashioned way know that braces can not only be extremely uncomfortable, but frustrating for patients who want to have a straighter smile but don’t want to spend months and months for all the benefits of a smile makeover.

Traditional braces impact your life every day when you need to eat, take once-in-a-lifetime family photos, and brush your teeth. In general, traditional braces are:

• Not removeable

• Visible

• Make it difficult to eat

• Hard to clean

Next time eyes are on you, make sure they recognize the authentic you with a winning, smile sculpted by an Invisalign® clear alignment trays. Invisalign is:

• Removeable

• Easy to eat normally with

• Easy to clean

• Virtually undetectable

• Comfortable

• Convenient

How Does Invisalign Work?

Let’s take a moment to dig into the process. In general, metal  braces make it pretty hard to see progress and use fixed wires and metal brackets which align teeth and hold them into place over time. In contrast, Invisalign does this by using a series of removeable aligners made from custom molds which gradually create a shift in the mouth’s landscape. An invisalign denstist helps shape your upper and lower teeth using a series of clear plastic aligners But, before that can happen, there’s a few important steps we need to take to best set our patients up for success.

Phase 1: The Smile assessment. Before our patients undergo orthodontic treatment, the first phase requires an initial assessment that involves a thorough analysis of your current alignment, teeth shape and positioning. Invisalign® is a convenient option for a wide variety of dental concerns. Most commonly, the invisalign used to correct:

• Underbite
• Deep bites or overbites
• Spacing/crowding issues
• Crossbites
• Basic teeth straightening

From there, the Art of Dentistry team will custom fit your first set of aligners by using computer-generated images and impressions taken from your mouth.

Phase 2: Fitting. Once we’ve finished your aligners, we’ll examine the fit to make sure it’s sitting comfortably and address any gaps or functionality issues if needed.

Phase 3: Routine Check-ups. Invisialign slowly moves your teeth into the desired positions using between 20 to 30 different sets of aligners. This requires face-to-face check-ups every 6-8 weeks to check your progress and to fit you with the next batch of aligners. Usually patients will wear aligners anywhere from a year to a year and a half.

Phase 4: Maintenance. Then, once you’ve transformed your smile, it’s relatively easy to keep your fresh alignment by using an Invisalign retainer.

Book a consultation with our team to learn more about our treatments today.

Tips for Starting Treatment

1. Wear Your Aligners Consistently. While Invisalign is more convenient than traditional orthodontics options, you’re still spending time and effort to achieve a beautiful smile… make sure you take care of your investment. Make sure you wear them, and that you wear them consistently. You should wear your aligner trays as close to 24 hours per day, and you could only take them out to eat, drink and clean them up.

It may be tempting to wear them less as you start to see results…. you may experience a regression or a plateau in your overall progression. You may even have wear your aligners longer. Make sure to make a good habit of wearing your aligners as consistently as possible.

2. Routinely Change Aligner Trays. Part of the treatment plan includes wearing new aligner trays b Every two weeks or so, you’ll start wearing new aligner trays. The new trays help your teeth straighten a bit more than the previous ones. By the time you’re wearing your last trays, you’ll have a completely new smile than when you started. To achieve this, you’ll need to change your trays on time.

Your orthodontist has you on a schedule to maintain steady progress. There’s a projected end-date, although it’s not a guarantee. Many people need an extra tray or two to put the finishing touches on their progress. Still, you should change your trays on time to keep up the pace and aim for your projected end-date.

3. Keep Your Previous Tray on Hand

Some people toss their old aligners into the trash when they move on to the next ones. After two weeks of wearing the same aligners, everyone is ready for a fresh pair. Now imagine a situation when someone loses their current aligners before receiving their next trays. How will they keep up their progress and reduce their chances of backsliding?

If this person had kept their previous trays on hand, they’d be in much better shape. Avoid this situation by saving last week’s aligners in case you lose or damage your current ones. You’ll protect your progress by wearing the old trays as you wait for your orthodontist to replace your current pair. Jumping to the next trays too early could be painful for your teeth, so wear your old aligners if you lose your current ones.

4. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Wearing aligners increases your chances of letting harmful bacteria build up in your mouth. This sounds scary, but there’s an easy way to combat this — keep practicing your regular dental hygiene habits. Your existing habits will go a long way in keeping your mouth healthy and clean. You can even take it a step further with renewed dedication. Brushing and flossing your teeth after every meal or snack is crucial in having a clean mouth. This leads to cleaner aligners and less harmful bacteria.

5. Use EverSmile WhiteFoam to Clean Your Aligners

Looking to take your dental hygiene to the next level during your Invisalign treatment? WhiteFoam by EverSmile could change the way you approach your dental health while wearing aligners. Clear aligners can be hard to keep fresh. They can develop a bad smell and show visible signs of funk, making them not so invisible anymore. With WhiteFoam, you can change that. Your friends wearing clear aligners might even wonder how you keep yours so clean.

WhiteFoam is a hydrogen peroxide-based solution that makes cleaning aligners convenient. Apply the foam to the inside of your aligners and put them on your teeth. That’s it! WhiteFoam will clean your aligners while freshening your breath and whitening your teeth. That’s three incredible benefits in one. And if you need some extra cleaning power, put your aligners in a cup and soak them with WhiteFoam for five minutes or so. They’ll be fresh and clean when you’re ready to wear them again.

6. Avoid Using Toothpaste and Mouthwash to Clean Your Aligners

Toothpaste and mouthwash are common items in many people’s bathrooms. These products are great for cleaning teeth, but you should avoid them when it’s time to clean your clear aligners. Toothpaste contains tiny abrasive particles that will scratch thermoplastic. Your toothbrush bristles will make these scratches worse. This could change your clear aligners from being invisible to being cloudy and noticeable.

You should also avoid soaking your clear aligners in mouthwash. Mouthwash contains dyes and colorants that risk staining your aligners. This will change your Invisalign aligners from clear to purple, green or blue. That’s the exact opposite effect you’re looking for when you choose clear aligners to straighten your teeth.

Buy WhiteFoam

7. Remove Your Aligners Before Eating and Drinking

Eating and drinking while wearing Invisalign would be an uncomfortable experience. Still, it’s good to remember to take your aligners out before engaging in either activity. Eating with your Invisalign is a bacterial buildup waiting to happen. It will lead to bad breath and food trapped in your aligners.

Drinking water while wearing aligners is fine. In fact, it can help rinse your aligners, leading to a cleaner mouth. But drinking coffee, tea, soda and other dark beverages will stain your aligners over time. To keep your aligners looking great, take them out during your morning coffee or your afternoon pick-me-up.

8. Rinse Regularly

An easy task to practice as a new Invisalign user is to rinse your aligners throughout the day. If you find yourself at a sink, it will only take a moment to pop out your trays and give them a quick rinse. This will remove any lingering particles that could contribute to bad breath, discoloration and funk. Get in the habit of rinsing your aligners any time you take them out during the day to keep them fresh.

9. Protect Your Aligners When Not in Use

We’ve mentioned a few instances where it’s a good idea to take your aligner trays out. After all, one of the reasons you chose Invisalign aligners is the convenience of removing them. But you’ll have to be careful during these situations. You’ll learn soon enough that it’s easy to misplace your trays once they leave your mouth.

Keeping your trays in a napkin when out of your mouth is a huge mistake. One wrong move or a single moment of forgetfulness could lead to them landing in the wastebasket. You then risk paying for replacement aligners and ruining your teeth-straightening progress. Keep a hard case on hand to hold your aligners when you take them out. This will protect them from sustaining damage and being accidentally thrown away.

10. Protect Your Mouth and Limit Invisalign Pain

Clear aligners from Invisalign could occasionally have sharp edges or rough areas of plastic. This may be uncommon, but it’s still distracting and even painful to experience. If you’ve already experienced this discomfort, you may be wondering how to make Invisalign more comfortable. Try applying a small amount of wax to the problem areas. This will protect the insides of your mouth for a while, but you may have to put more wax on throughout the day.

You may also experience tooth pain when wearing new trays. When you put new aligners in for the first time, try biting down several times to break them in. This will help your teeth adjust to the new trays. It can even reduce the pain from new aligner pressure by getting the blood flowing in your gums.

You could take this a step further by trying orthodontic chewies like OrthoChews from EverSmile. These chewies can reduce Invisalign pain by putting some pressure on your teeth and massaging sore gums. Over time, you’ll grow familiar with the pain and it will be more tolerable. Help yourself experience less discomfort with OrthoChews.

11. Use AlignerFresh for On-The-Go Cleaning

When you’re out running errands, attending class, going to work or hanging with friends, you may not have time to clean your aligners. This can lead to your aligners getting smelly and funky in the situations when you least want them to. You got Invisalign aligners to increase your confidence, and these moments can have the opposite effect.

AlignerFresh from EverSmile is the solution to this problem. EverSmile made this product to be portable and safe to take on the go, and it’s super easy to use. Take your aligner trays out, give them a spray and put them back in. AlignerFresh will get to work immediately, providing the same benefits as EverSmile’s WhiteFoam. Smelly, funky aligners will make their exit when you make AlignerFresh a part of your daily life.

12. Wear Your Retainer When You Finish Treatment

When you’ve completed your Invisalign aligner treatment, you’ll need retainers to keep your teeth in place. Otherwise, your teeth could shift back to their previous positions. Make sure you preserve the result of all your hard work, money and dedication by wearing your retainers as long as you can. You should wear them for the rest of your life.

Keep your final trays to act as backup retainers. If something happens to your retainers, you can use your final trays until you get replacements. Remember, after all your hard work, the last thing you want is for your teeth to shift back. Wear your retainers to keep your teeth looking great for years to come.

About The Art of Dentistry

Located in San Diego, CA, the Art of Dentistry dentists are consistently recognized as top in their field by their peers.  The Art of Dentistry prides itself on our highly experienced and skilled staff. We understand that, just like other artists, each specialist has their own unique talents. To take full advantage of that, we have developed a team of top specialists to work collaboratively and provide you with comprehensive care that results in a magnificent smile. We offer target skillsets, advanced technology, customized treatment plans, comprehensive restorative dentistry as well as general dentistry, and much more. 

Book a consultation with our team to learn more about our treatments today.

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How to choose the best dentist for cosmetic work

When it comes to choosing the best cosmetic dentist, it’s important to understand that while both practicing cosmetic and general dentists are schooled in the same educational materials (and are recognized by the American Dental Association) they don’t always specialize in the same procedures.

While a cosmetic dentist has the same basic training as a general dentist has, what sets them apart is their artistic approach to medical science and the fact that they are recognized separately by the the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists.

Cosmetic dentists have extensive training in the artistic aspects of dental care and understand the social and culture ties with dental aesthetics. They provide cosmetic treatments which not only lead to better overall dental health but help improve patients self-esteem and comfort while they’re at the dentist office.

Here’s a few tips to make sure you select the best doc for your oral health and the cosmetic dental procedures you need.

Consider the cosmetic dentistry work you need done

Typically, a dental professional will specialize in the general maintenance of the mouth. Cosmetic dentists also often handle general oral health needs, so while they can handle repairing small cavities, repair chipped teeth and missing teeth, as well as address common issues like gum disease, their real value is their ability to create full smile makeovers.

Some of the most common cosmetic procedures include: 

Enamel shaping:  Not happy with your tooth shape? No problem. Cosmetic dentists can use a technique called dental bonding to reshape uneven teeth by filing down or using bonding materials. Of all the cosmetic dental practices, this is a pretty quick fix for greatly improving a patient’s smile by using special, color-matched materials to repair or improve badly damaged or chipped teeth.

Tooth whitening: Almost all general dentistry offices offer teeth whitening services, but a cosmetic dentist often has more extensive whitening agents and color testing to make sure the degree of whitening works best with your complexion and tooth colored preferences.

Gum contouring: If you have an overly “gummy” smile, there’s a cosmetic alternative! Gum reshaping can help fix an uneven gum line by working with a the oral and maxillofacial tissues to create a more aesthetically pleasing tooth and gum shape. A cosmetic dentist can use a special laser or scalpel to remove excess gum tissue and shape the gum line to reveal more of the tooth… and voila! an instant smile makeover.

Dental implants. For those who have struggled with poorly fitted complete dentures or fixed partial dentures (or are missing one or more teeth) a dental implant can help create a more natural-looking, radiant smile. Dental implants are a cosmetic dentistry specialty, but it can be quite intensive. Successful dental implants require multiple steps for attaching artificial teeth to the tooth root anchor in the gum including a process for preparing the gum line for replacement tooth roots. Typically, the implant base material is titanium, which is attached to the jawbone, minimizing the slipping or damage that often accompanies bridgework or removable artificial teeth.

Dental restoration: There are several methods for restoring damaged teeth. Fillings are one of the most popular. These days, amalgam fillings and silver fillings have been traded in for acrylic, porcelain, or composite fillings so they look more like your natural teeth, and are fused to metal to withstand biting pressure. A few other dental restoration methods include:

• Inlay – This is used when a tooth sports a larger than normal cavity and needs a lot of the structure removed.

• Onlay – Also known as a three quarter crowns cover, this restoration method covers all four corners of a tooth, but stops short of the gum line.

• Crown – Sometimes called “caps,” this is the go-to fix for unrestored teeth and covers the entire tooth. Cosmetic dentists are well-versed in properly placing crowns and making sure they fit properly.

Veneers. If you’re unhappy with your natural tooth shape and your teeth are too discolored or damaged for enamel reshaping, porcelain veneers (made from a wafer thin, shell-like material) are custom made and applied to a patient’s teeth to mask tooth decay and gum recession. The Thin shells of the veneer create the effect of instant tooth whitening and can help even help minimize or mask large spaces, or elongate short teeth.   

Orthodontic treatments: Crooked or misaligned teeth in the past have been treated with old school braces… but most cosmetic dentists consider this an antiquated treatment method. A cosmetic dentist will likely recommend patients use Invisalign® because it uses clear, medical-grade plastic that’s nearly invisible, and is removable for eating and drinking purposes. Invisalign® is often custom-fit for each patient to addressed crooked teeth, tooth loss, misalignment, gaps or overcrowding. 

Check credentials

Just as not all doctors can perform every type of surgery or procedure, not all dentists are qualified to administer the same procedures. To become a cosmetic dentist, the aspiring candidates need to earn:

1. Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or

2. Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.

Students can join dental school program after completing a Bachelor of Science degree in a field like biology, chemistry, or a related field, students can apply for a dental school program.

Typically a DDS or DMD course of study will include include:

• Anatomy

• Microbiology

• Oral and maxillofacial surgery

• Biochemistry

• Anesthesia, radiology

• Oral pathology and periodontics

Additionally, as cosmetic dentist must be licensed in their state of practice, so they must pass a written and practical examination for their state. From there, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry provides the official accreditation in cosmetic dentistry.

Just as you would with any other medical professional, it’s important to make sure your practitioner is appropriately accredited and that they are active in their continuing education.

To find the best fit, you may want to:

• Visit the dental office. Sometimes the best way to find dentist’s office and dentist you feel comfortable is to visit in-person…prior to your first appointment. This way you can talk to the staff, inquire about accreditation and establish a first impression.

• Ask for referrals. Have a general dentist you love but need more extensive cosmetic work done? Ask for a referral. Often, professionals are well connected with others who are local in the industry.

• Read online reviews. Going online and reading reviews or looking at before and after pictures can help give you an idea of a cosmetic dentists approach and reputation. In fact, many cosmetic dentists have their portfolios on Instagram as well as their website, so you can get a feel for the type of work they specialize in.

• Review leading dentist offices in your area. While in some smaller areas, cosmetic dentists may be few and far between, a better smile may be just around the corner! Many local guides and online resources have a list of the top-rated medical and dental professionals for each state, region or county.

Ask if they offer sedation dentistry

Just as not all doctors are certified and able to perform every type of medical procedure, not all dentists can perform certain dental techniques or administer sedation. Sedation dentistry requires special training, and each state carries its own qualification requirements. For example, before a dentist can legally practice sedation dentistry in California, they must complete:

1. a board-approved educational program on oral medications and sedation

2. At least 25 hours of training

3. One live patient experience

You may want to inquire what types of sedation dentistry options they offer (nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or IV sedation.)

Book a consultation with our team to learn more about our treatments today.

About The Art of Dentistry

Located in San Diego, Dr. David Landau, Dr. Lawrence Addleson and their extraordinary team are widely recognized for their top-quality smile designs. They have been awarded with recognition from their  peers for many consecutive years and have been credited for the “whole body” approach to cosmetic dentistry.

Book a consultation with our team to learn more about our treatments today.

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what is the difference between a dentist and a cosmetic dentist?

What Type of Dentist Do I Need?

For anyone in search of preventative care or has specialized clinical conditions in relation to dental needs, finding the right dentist is key. Two of the most common types of dentists are cosmetic and general. So, what’s the real difference among those in the dental fields?

What is the difference between a dentist and a cosmetic dentist?

It’s important to understand that while both cosmetic and general dentists went to dental school, are schooled in the same foundational material, and are recognized by the American Dental Association, not all general dentists are considered cosmetic dentists or are versed in cosmetic procedures.

Typically, a general dentist or orthodontist specializes in the general maintenance of the mouth, and while they may offer a broad range of services, cosmetic dentists can handle all the same oral health needs that general dentistry provides… and then some.

A cosmetic dentist has the same basic training as a general dentist has; however, what sets them apart is that their services sit within the intersection of artistry and medical science. Cosmetic dentists have extensive training in more artistic aspects and are well versed in the cultural and social importance tied to dental aesthetics. They provide cosmetic treatments which not only lead to better overall dental health but provide patients with improved aesthetic appearance, and often, better self-esteem.

Research shows that over fifty percent of Americans are dissatisfied with the overall aesthetic appearance of their smile, and research suggests that dental disorders hugely impact mental health and overall well-being.

Most Common General Dentistry Focuses

As a whole, general and cosmetic dentists focus on four primary areas of concern, which include:

1. Tooth damage/decay: One of the major dentistry concerns is damaged or decayed teeth which can lead to missing or deficient teeth. Often, this isn’t only painful, but can lead to functional problems that may affect eating, drinking or talking. Permanently damaged teeth may require dentists to repair the issue with a dental crown or a cap to cover a damaged tooth. In other instances, dental bridges, dental implants, root canals and other types of dental surgery may be needed to fulfill repair needs.
2. Poor alignment: While aesthetics are of course a component of cosmetic dentistry, alignment issues are addressed by both general and cosmetic dentistry. When overlooked, misalignment can lead to damage to the teeth and gums, but it can also cause chronic pain and a cascade of other health issues, such as headaches, or  temporomandibular joint disorder (otherwise known as TMJ.) In extreme circumstances, teeth may also crack.  Traditional braces, Invisalign and other medical devices, such a retainer, can help improve alignment, oral function, and the overall look of a patient’s smile.
3. Teeth discoloration: One of the most common dental concerns centers around stained teeth. Both cosmetic dentists and general dentists offer teeth whitening services. While whitening can be done at home, dentists can provide more professional, effective, and less-irritating results than at-home options.  Often, many of these services also include reusable molds which can then be taken home along with a supply of medical-grade teeth whitening treatment.
4. Poor hygiene: While genetics plays a large part in our overall dental health, poor hygiene can lead to gum disease and other dental problems covered above, including cavities, decay and discoloration and ultimately, alignment issues. Family dentistry usually seeks to provide additional education to help with preventative care and to improve oral hygiene practices.

Cosmetic Dentistry Services 

Cosmetic dentists see each mouth as unique as a fingerprint. Each requires special consideration, and as a result there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment planning. Instead, cosmetic dentists customize their approach and combine their understanding of biology, mechanics and aesthetic desires.

Some of the most common cosmetic procedures include:

Dental implants: For those who have struggled with ill fitting dentures or have either a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, a dental implant can help create a natural, beautiful smile. This cosmetic procedure is a one-stop shop for a total smile makeover; however, it does require a multi-step process which fuses artificial, custom-made teeth to root anchors in the gum. Typically, the implant base material is titanium, which is attached to the jawbone, minimizing the slipping or damage that often accompanies bridgework or dentures.

Dental crowns: Crowns or “caps” as they’re sometimes called help reshape teeth or fix cracks and breaks too large for a filling. These days, amalgam fillings and crowns have been traded in for acrylic or porcelain, so they blend with your natural teeth, and are fused to metal to withstand biting pressure.

Veneers: For those unhappy with their natural tooth shape, or those with discoloration and damage who want a bright smile, porcelain veneers (made from a thin, shell-like material) are custom made and applied to the patient’s teeth. Veneers can help even help minimize or mask large spaces, or elongate short teeth.

Teeth shaping: Dental bonding is the process which a dental provider can use to reshape uneven teeth by filing down or using bonding materials. Of all the cosmetic dental practices, this is a relatively quick process, and can greatly improve a patient’s smile by using special, color-matched materials to repair or improve badly damaged or chipped teeth.

Gum contouring: For those primarily concerned with having an overly “gummy” smile, gum reshaping can be done by manipulating the oral and maxillofacial tissues to create a more pleasing tooth and gum shape. This is usually done by a cosmetic dentist who will use a special laser or scalpel to remove excess gum tissue and shape the gum line to reveal more of the tooth.

Orthodontic treatments: While some general dentists still prescribe braces for alignment concerns, a cosmetic dentist will likely recommend patients use Invisalign® because it uses clear, medical-grade plastic that’s nearly invisible, and is removable for eating and drinking purposes. Most cosmetic dentists will custom-fit for each patient to help fix crooked teeth, misalignment, gaps or overcrowding.

Specialized Cosmetic Dentist Tools

Because cosmetic dentists have access to some of the most advanced technology available in the industry, they are able to provide more convenient alternatives to time-consuming traditional approaches. For example, Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic (CEREC) helps fabricate and repair dental damage, including inlays, onlays, three-quarter crowns, crowns, or veneers all in the same visit.

About The Art of Dentistry

Located in San Diego, Dr. David Landau, Dr. Lawrence Addleson and their extraordinary team are widely recognized for their top-quality smile designs. They have been awarded with recognition from their peers for many consecutive years and have been credited for the “whole body” approach to cosmetic dentistry.

Book a consultation with our team to learn more about our treatments today.

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