The Differences Between Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry

Here's a question we get asked very often: 

"Do I need cosmetic or restorative services to fix my smile?" 

And the answer is that it depends. 

While both types of treatments aim to improve a person's oral health, there are some critical differences between the two.

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

As the name suggests, cosmetic dentistry in Frisco focuses on improving the appearance of a person's teeth and smile. It involves various procedures that can alter the shape, size, color, and alignment of a person's teeth. Some common cosmetic dental procedures include teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, and braces.

Cosmetic dentistry is usually elective, meaning that, more often than not, it isn't necessary for a person's oral health. However, it can help boost a person's self-confidence and improve their overall quality of life.

What Is Restorative Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and restoring the function of a person's teeth. Restorative treatments are used to repair damages to a person's teeth, such as filling cavities, replacing missing teeth, and repairing fractured or chipped teeth.

Restorative dentistry is often necessary for a person's oral health, as it helps to prevent further damage to the teeth and preserve the function of their mouth.

Differences Between Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry

There are several key differences between cosmetic and restorative dentistry:

• Purpose

As mentioned above, the main purpose of cosmetic dentistry is to improve the appearance of your smile, while restorative dentistry focuses more on restoring the function of your teeth.

• Necessity

Cosmetic dentistry is often elective, meaning that it is not necessary for a person's oral health. Stained teeth, for example, will not affect your oral health and are not considered a medical necessity. As such, cosmetic procedures are usually not covered by insurance. 

Restorative dentistry, on the other hand, is often necessary to preserve and restore a person's oral health 

• The Treatment 

The treatments used in cosmetic dentistry are focused on improving the appearance of your teeth. In contrast, the procedures used in restorative dentistry are focused on repairing and restoring the function of your teeth.

• Length of Treatment

Cosmetic dentistry treatments are often shorter in duration than restorative dentistry treatments, as they do not involve as much repair work. You can get your teeth whitened in just one session, for example, but you may need two or more appointments for a dental crown. 

• Cost

Cosmetic dentistry treatments are often more expensive than restorative dentistry treatments, as they are usually not covered by insurance. Restorative dentistry treatments may be covered by insurance, but it all depends on what you need and your insurance plan.

Do You Want to Improve Your Oral Health? We Can Help! 

Not sure which type of treatment is right for you? Book an appointment with one of the doctors at MODERN BITE DENTISTRY, and we can help you determine if cosmetic or restorative dentistry fits your needs best. 

Head to our contact page, send us a message, and we will get back to you to schedule an appointment.