What is the Difference Between a Cosmetic Dentist and a Dentist?

When you hear the term cosmetic dentist, you might immediately think it’s an entirely separate role from that of a general dentist.

In reality, the difference lies less in the qualifications and more in the area of specialisation, and the focus of the work that is performed. Both types of dentists need to have the same foundation in oral health, but their day-to-day practices, skillsets, and treatment areas can differ quite a bit.

To make sense of the distinction between these two types of dentistry, it’s helpful to break down what each does, how the training process differs, and the kinds of treatments performed in each area.

At Oasis Dental Studio, we have both general dentists and cosmetic dentists, who can perform a wide variety of treatments. We have locations in the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne and Pottsville.

What is the role of a general dentist?

A general dentist is trained to manage the overall health of your teeth, gums, and mouth.

Their role is often centred on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental conditions that affect function and health. This can involve routine check-ups, scaling and cleaning, filling cavities, treating gum disease, and performing extractions when required.

They are also responsible for finding more complex issues that may need specialist referral, such as oral cancers, advanced periodontal disease, or significant structural damage to the teeth and jaws. Their scope of work ensures that the foundations of oral health are managed, so that teeth and gums remain functional and free from disease.

What is a cosmetic dentist?

While a cosmetic dentist has the same base training as a general dentist, the focus of their work extends into procedures that are designed to alter the shape, colour, alignment, or surface of the teeth.

They typically still understand and treat oral health issues in the same way as a general dentist, but they are often sought out for procedures that go beyond function and are more centred on the aesthetics of the teeth.

The procedures a cosmetic dentist may perform can include veneers, bonding, crowns, teeth whitening, and alignment treatments. These are not always purely cosmetic – veneers, for example, can also have some functional benefits – but the intent is typically to change the way the teeth look rather than only repairing function.

Do cosmetic dentists need additional training?

Every dentist begins their career with a degree in dentistry, which covers anatomy, oral health, treatment planning, and the full range of clinical techniques needed for practice. After this, they are qualified as a general dentist and can perform the full scope of routine dental care.

For those who choose to branch into cosmetic dentistry, additional courses and training are usually undertaken. These are not always formal postgraduate degrees but can include workshops, short courses, and extended training in advanced techniques such as porcelain veneer placement or digital smile design systems. This training refines the dentist’s technical ability in areas that require a high level of precision and understanding of dental materials.

How are general and cosmetic dental treatments different?

When you see a general dentist for an issue, their approach will usually be guided by the functional problem at hand. For example, if you have decay in a molar, their main concern will be removing the decay and restoring the tooth so it can chew properly without pain or further deterioration.

A cosmetic dentist, while still managing decay or damage if present, may approach the same issue with additional options that focus on the tooth’s appearance. They might suggest a restoration that blends seamlessly in colour with surrounding teeth, or even recommend a veneer or crown that not only restores function but also aligns with a broader treatment plan for improving the uniformity of the teeth.

What happens during an appointment with a general dentist or cosmetic dentist?

When you visit a general dentist, you can expect them to conduct a full examination of your mouth, teeth, and gums, looking for decay, signs of gum disease, wear on the teeth, or other functional problems. Treatment will usually be structured around addressing the issues that are most urgent for maintaining your oral health.

An appointment with a cosmetic dentist may also begin with an examination, but the conversation will often move toward options for altering the presentation of the teeth. This can involve digital scans, imaging, or impressions to plan for veneers, crowns, or alignment devices. In some practices, cosmetic treatments are combined with restorative treatments, so that patients leave with both function restored and the appearance of their teeth altered.

Why does the distinction matter?

Understanding the difference between the two helps you know where to go for your specific type of treatment, and what types of dentistry to research further.

If you have a toothache, infection, or a cavity, a general dentist is the first step. If your concern lies in the alignment or colour of your teeth, or you are considering treatments like veneers or crowns for reasons beyond repair, a cosmetic dentist may be the right person to consult.

Some clinics, such as Oasis, have dentists who focus on both general and cosmetic treatments. This can be a great choice as all of your dental needs will be in the one place, and can even be considered comprehensively as part of a complete, tailored plan.

Oasis Dental Studio: General and Cosmetic Dentists in the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne and Pottsville

Whether you’re seeking general dental care or cosmetic treatment options, finding a clinic with a variety of dental treatments can lead you to the most comprehensive care.

At Oasis, our cosmetic dentists and general dentists can assess your needs and recommend the right treatment approach. If you’re interested in having a cosmetic dental treatment, such as whitening or veneers, they can assess your overall dental health and create a highly personalised treatment plan to achieve the aesthetic results you want.

Please contact our team to book your consultation or to ask us any questions!