Recently, there has been a trend of people undergoing various procedures because they desire perfect teeth. While teeth were only essential for eating and talking, they’re now considered requisites for overall beauty.
People look towards cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics to improve themselves with completely aligned and clean white teeth. However, who should you visit to get the teeth you desire? — a cosmetic dentist or an orthodontist?
Since the roles of these two health professionals are closely related, it may be challenging, or rather, confusing to select who you need precisely. Yet, as close-knit as these professionals’ roles may seem, there are specific nuances between them.
This guide covers the differences between an orthodontist and a cosmetic dentist. We hope it helps you make a well-informed decision on who to go to for that set of teeth you desire.
Who Is a Cosmetic Dentist?
A cosmetic dentist is an individual trained in improving beauty with regard to their teeth and gums. Although they still perform the traditional roles of a dentist by fixing imperfections in the teeth, they have other unique functions that set them apart.
While most of these dentists perform only beauty-related dental procedures, they still undergo basic training as regular dentists. Pursuing a career in cosmetic dentistry requires a degree from a dental school before one can concentrate purely on cosmetic procedures.
Roles of Cosmetic Dentists
Since cosmetic dentists forgo some of their conventional dental roles, what services do they offer? Here are some of them:
Fixing of Veneers
Veneers are custom-made tooth-colored pieces placed over the front of the teeth to improve their appearance. These porcelain pieces are used to restore the white color of teeth.
Cosmetic dentists perform this procedure on people who want whiter teeth. When in place, you can be sure of always having white teeth because they are resistant to staining.
Dental Bonding
Many tend to restrain themselves when smiling because of a fractured or decaying tooth. Thankfully, there’s a fix for that — cosmetic dentists apply a resin-like material to the tooth, which blends in with the rest of the teeth and prevents further damage.
Fixing of Dental Implants
Some situations, such as a badly decayed tooth or a fight, might cause you to lose a tooth. Instead of having to live with a considerable space between your teeth, dental implants come in handy. Combined with a prosthetic tooth at the top, they replace your lost teeth and support neighboring teeth.
Correction of Misaligned Teeth
Although this falls under the roles of an orthodontist, cosmetic dentists may, in some cases, help to correct misaligned teeth. However, they provide you with an option, such as a dental brace, that will not diminish your dental elegance.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a popular reason why people visit a cosmetic dentist. While there are several methods available online, the services of a cosmetic dentist are the most effective and safe. Although it’s costly, the professional application of chemicals by the cosmetic dentist will provide effective whitening without causing any damage to your gums.
Restoration of Cavity-Damaged Teeth
Some cases of cavities might only require filling up the holes to preserve the tooth. This is one of the procedures that a cosmetic dentist performs. To prevent more damage from decay, the cavity in the tooth is filled with some substances like resin and porcelain.
Who Is an Orthodontist?
This dental professional is responsible for correcting misaligned teeth and the jaw. Practicing a specialized type of dental care, they begin their careers as dentists and then specialize in orthodontics.
To facilitate talking and chewing, orthodontists align the upper and lower jaw. Although their roles might seem straightforward, proper training and expertise are required to perform them. They might utilize invisible teeth aligners to correct alignment problems in the teeth to maintain aesthetics.
Roles of Orthodontists
Aside from helping you correct misaligned teeth, the orthodontist also performs some unique roles. Here are some of them:
Correction of Overcrowded Teeth
Overcrowding of the teeth occurs when there isn’t enough space for the teeth of adults to grow in proper alignment. It’s one of the most important reasons why people visit an orthodontist. They achieve excellent teeth alignment with the use of dental braces.
Alignment of Spaced Teeth
In contrast to overcrowded teeth, too much space between teeth occurs when the jaw is too wide. In addition to the poor appearance of poorly spaced teeth, these spaces can easily lodge food, subsequently causing decay.
Correction of Bite Problems
An orthodontist corrects deformities of the anteroposterior deviation of the teeth. It’s either expressed as an underbite (where lower teeth are positioned further than the upper ones) or an overbite (where upper teeth are in a more forward position relative to lower teeth). With their assistance, patients can restore chewing and proper articulation.
Realignment of the Jaw
Some people experience jaw deformities that ruin the shape of their whole face. Thankfully, orthodontists have the skills to restructure the jaw. They also correct the alignment of the lips and teeth to create a well-shaped face.
Which Is Better for You?
It’s undeniable that cosmetic dentists and orthodontists have considerable overlap in their services. Although combining their services may provide the best results to some, choosing the ideal dental specialist all comes down to what you want for your teeth. For example, while an orthodontist focuses on correcting the alignment of spaced teeth, whitening your teeth requires the services of a cosmetic dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I combine the services of a cosmetic dentist and an orthodontist?
Some issues might require you to visit both dental specialists. For example, if you want to whiten your misaligned teeth to look good, you will have to visit an orthodontist first to carry out the first process. After correcting the alignment, you can whiten your teeth at a cosmetic dental clinic.
Do orthodontists have any other functions?
Yes, they do.
They can correct breathing issues like snoring or restrictions in swallowing due to problems with the teeth or jaw.
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