Cosmetic Dentist Near Me: What’s the Difference Between Cosmetic and Restorative?

While social media has been great at raising awareness for oral health issues, it can lead to some confusion. Our cosmetic and restorative dentists in Beaufort, SC, have found that many patients need clarification about our areas of expertise. What falls under the category of cosmetic dentistry, and what falls under restorative? What you choose could have a profound impact on your dental health. 

So, before you go searching for a “cosmetic dentist near me,” make sure you know what you’re looking for and how to ask for it. Marshlands Family Dentistry points the way, highlighting which type of dentistry fits your needs. 

“I Have Tooth and Jaw Pain” = Restorative Dentistry

You wouldn’t decorate a house that’s falling apart. By the same token, you wouldn’t perform cosmetic dentistry on a smile that has underlying issues. Tooth and jaw pain indicate a problem with your health, not your aesthetics. Our restorative dentists in Beaufort, SC, offer several tooth and jaw pain remedies, from dental fillings to TMJ disorder treatment. 

“I Want a More Symmetrical Smile” = Cosmetic Dentistry

This is when we recommend searching for a “cosmetic dentist near me.” One of the most popular solutions to an asymmetrical smile is porcelain veneers. These can cover up stains, uneven tooth shape, and even minor alignment issues. 

What you shouldn’t do is seek out dental crowns just for a more even look. You may have seen the trend of getting several crowns in the quest for a perfect smile. However, tooth crowns require shaving down your natural tooth to fit under the cap. They’re only used to restore a damaged tooth. In those cases, our Beaufort dentists must remove the damaged part of your tooth, which is why you require a crown afterward—for much-needed protection and strength. 

“I Want a Stronger Smile” = Restorative Dentistry

This scenario is when dental crowns do come into play. If your teeth have been weakened by decay, damage, or wear and tear, such as from teeth grinding or clenching, a restorative dentist in Beaufort, SC, might recommend a tooth crown. For less severe issues, we can use dental fillings.

You can get a stronger smile that’s also more aesthetically pleasing with dental bonding. The material we use for bonding can fill cavities and protect your teeth, making it both cosmetic and restorative dentistry. 

“I Have Chipped Teeth” = Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic chips that aren’t affecting the integrity of your tooth can be fixed with bonding or covered with veneers. However, before you start looking for a “cosmetic dentist near me,” make sure you know if a chip is only cosmetic. At Marshlands Family Dentistry, we can verify if a chip is in danger of widening or spreading. 

“I Have Cracked Teeth” = Restorative Dentistry

Different from minor chips, cracks in your teeth require immediate attention from a dentist in Beaufort, SC. As the Cleveland Clinic highlights, cracked teeth that aren’t treated can develop infections and abscesses. Don’t dismiss this as a mere cosmetic issue. Get care right away. 

Get Answers from a Beaufort Cosmetic Dentist Near Me 

If you are unsure if your smile needs an aesthetic update or essential treatments, contact Marshlands Family Dentistry today. We can set up an appointment to discuss what you need and want for your smile. Our restorative and cosmetic dentistry services complement each other to give you the best solution. Get started now.