Reviewed by Dr. Olga Karnakova, DDS
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the appearance of teeth and the smile. It overlaps with general and restorative dentistry, but each procedure has its own purpose, limitations, and maintenance requirements.
What does a cosmetic dentist do?
A dentist offering cosmetic care evaluates oral health and discusses changes to tooth color, shape, size, or spacing. The plan should account for decay, gum health, bite, and existing restorations as well as appearance. The phrase “cosmetic dentist” alone does not establish a separate specialty credential.
Common procedures
- Whitening: lightens natural teeth; restorations may not change shade.
- Bonding: uses tooth-colored material to repair selected chips or change contours.
- Veneers: cover the front surfaces of teeth and may require irreversible preparation.
- Crowns: restore teeth that need more extensive coverage.
- Orthodontics: moves teeth to address alignment or bite concerns.
- Implant restorations: replace missing teeth when an implant-based plan is appropriate.
How does this differ from general dentistry?
General dentistry includes prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral health problems. Cosmetic care emphasizes appearance, although one procedure may serve both goals. A healthy foundation matters before elective changes are planned.
How do you choose a treatment?
Start with your priorities rather than a procedure name. Ask which options are suitable, what each option changes, and how much healthy tooth structure must be altered. Discuss sensitivity, repair or replacement needs, treatment stages, and cost. Ask whether monitoring or a more conservative approach would meet your goals.
Planning care at Cal Dental Group
Review our cosmetic dentistry services and dental team. Call 323-934-2804 to request a consultation. Your dentist can explain appropriate options after an examination; an online description cannot predict your result.
