Many people are accustomed to receiving restorative and preventive dental care. However, they may know little about cosmetic dental treatments. Here are a few questions and answers to offer more information about cosmetic dentistry and how it can be beneficial.

How does cosmetic dentistry differ from restorative and preventive dentistry?

Restorative dentistry is designed to treat health-related issues with your teeth and gums. Teeth that incur damage from decay are restored through this area of dentistry using treatment applications, such as fillings and root canals.

Preventive dentistry, as the name implies, helps to prevent problems from developing, Dental cleanings, sealants and routine examinations fall into this category.

Cosmetic dentistry differs from its counterparts, because it may not address the health of a tooth at all. Instead, this area of dentistry focuses on the tooth's appearance. It includes applications, such as dental veneers, crowns and implants. Teeth whitening is also a common cosmetic dental service. 

What types of cosmetic issues are addressed through cosmetic dentistry?

Many different types of dental blemishes can be corrected through cosmetic dentistry. Here are a few of them:

• Dental staining (permanent and temporary)
• Gaps or large spaces between the teeth
• Teeth that have an irregular shape
• Teeth that are chipped or cracked
• Teeth that appear too small for a facial structure
• Missing teeth

Are cosmetic applications ever used in restorative dentistry?

Some cosmetic dental applications, such as dental crowns, are also used in restorative dental care. After a tooth has been treated to alleviate discomfort or remove decay, the tooth may need to be protected by a dental crown or cap. The crown or cap not only helps to fortify the tooth, but it restores the tooth's appearance as well. 

If a person suffers from multiple cosmetic dental issues, are there applications to address them all at once?

Some cosmetic applications, such as veneers and crowns, are versatile enough to correct multiple cosmetic dental concerns at the same time. A dental veneer conceals the cosmetic blemishes of a tooth. The device is a small, thin piece of porcelain or resin that is shaped like a tooth. It is bonded to the front of a tooth, and once it is in place, it is seen instead of the tooth that lies beneath it. A crown can also be used to cover a tooth. Because the tooth is concealed by these applications, the blemishes of the covered tooth are hidden, regardless of what they are. 

To learn more about cosmetic dentistry and how you can benefit, schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist in your area. Check with companies like Fresh Wave Dental Care PC for more information.