Restorative dentistry doesn’t just fix teeth–it rebuilds confidence and lets your individuality shine. Paired with cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry can transform your smile!
While restorative and cosmetic procedures often work hand-in-hand, they aren’t the same. At Asheville Dental, we’re here to help you achieve the look and function your smile deserves.
Restorative dental procedures repair damaged or decayed teeth, while cosmetic ones enhance appearance.
What Is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing or replacing damaged teeth. Whether it’s a cavity, a cracked, or a missing tooth, treatments like root canals, bridges, and crowns address these issues and improve oral health and function. Some of the most beneficial results include:
- Improved chewing function
- Reduced jaw discomfort
- Maintained bone structure
The best way to maintain dental health over the long term starts with brushing, flossing, and getting regular dental checkups!
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
From teeth whitening to dental bonding and veneers, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your smile. Some of the most beneficial results include:
- Brighten dull, stained teeth
- Improve the shape of your teeth
- Conceal chips and cracks
BONUS: Cosmetic dentistry can bring balance and symmetry to your smile, restoring your confidence.
The main difference is that cosmetic dentistry focuses more on aesthetics and appearance, while restorative dentistry improves the teeth’s functionality.
Key Differences Between Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry
While restorative and cosmetic dentistry work together to make you feel more confident and comfortable with your smile, there are key differences, including:
- Purpose. Restorative dental procedures repair damaged or decayed teeth, while cosmetic ones enhance appearance. For example, a dental crown can protect a tooth from further decay or improve its shape, color, and size, and a dental bridge can restore your smile by filling the gap left by missing teeth, using artificial teeth anchored to neighboring natural teeth or implants to improve function, appearance, and alignment.
- Necessity. Because restorative dental work is necessary for treating damaged, decaying, or missing teeth, it requires more urgency than cosmetic dentistry. For instance, a severely decayed tooth may require a root canal and crown to prevent infection and save the tooth, whereas cosmetic whitening treatments can wait without affecting oral health.
The main difference is that cosmetic dentistry focuses more on aesthetics and appearance, while restorative dentistry improves the teeth’s functionality.
Not all restorative treatments are cosmetic, and not all cosmetic procedures address functional issues.
Which Option Is Right for You?
When deciding between restorative and cosmetic dentistry, it’s essential to understand that not all restorative treatments are cosmetic, and not all cosmetic procedures address functional issues.
The right choice depends on your unique priorities and oral health needs. Ask yourself:
- “Am I experiencing discomfort or functional issues?”
- “Is my smile affecting my confidence or holding me back?”
Our dentists are always ready to help our patients in every need and answer any questions you may have!
Love Your Smile at Asheville Dental
Let’s create a look that reflects your unique radiance!
We invest in state-of-the-art equipment to give patients the high-tech treatment they deserve. Contact us today and see how we can elevate your smile!
