Just like physicians, there are many different specialties in the dental field. Two of the most common are general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. General dentistry consists mostly of diagnosing, treating, and managing your oral health needs, while cosmetic dentistry is more about improving the appearance of your teeth, bite, and gums.

Can a General Dentist Perform Cosmetic Dentistry Work?

It's very common to find that a general dentist will perform several cosmetic procedures for their patients. Some of the most common include dental fillings, crowns, implants, and whitening. In many smaller rural areas of the country where there may be only one or two dentists operating in the area, you'll typically find one that has training in a wide variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures.

It's important to realize that general dentists and cosmetic dentists go through many of the same education programs. Both must complete a doctoral degree in their field and become licensed to operate within the state. Cosmetic dentists must undergo a restorative, cosmetic, or aesthetic postgraduate program to receive more specialized training. Dentists that focus on cosmetic dentistry can perform numerous procedures, including dental implants, bridges, dentures, smile makeovers, veneers, whitening, and bonding.

How to Check If Your Dentist is Qualified?

One of the best ways to check if your dentist is qualified to perform cosmetic procedures is to ask them or check out their practice's website. Most dental offices will list the different types of procedures they offer patients on their website so you can be assured that they offer the dental procedures you're looking for.

Many dentists who focus on cosmetic dentistry will have a plethora of experienced training in the area. Look at their dental qualifications and history on their website if they have them listed. Pay close attention to any advanced dental schools that the dentist attended. Some may have cosmetics in their name.

See if they have specific technique certificates for cosmetic procedures like dental implants, Invisalign, etc. Lastly, see what dental associations they are part of. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or the AACD for short, is one of the most common associations for those who practice cosmetic dentistry.

It can be extremely helpful to find a general dentist with the right qualifications to perform cosmetic dentistry procedures. This can make things much easier since you'll only have to go to one dentist to handle most of your dental needs. Additionally, it can be more soothing to know that you're going to a dentist who gets to know your teeth over the long term.

Call Us Today

If you need general dentistry or cosmetic dentistry, then it's time to give us a call at Smiles by Hay. Let our helpful dentists assist you with all of your dental health needs.

Resources:
https://dentalhealthsociety.com/general/can-a-general-dentist-do-cosmetic-dentistry/