Understanding Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist, and Prosthodontist with Dr. Sam Wise

 Choosing a dentist based on your specific dental needs is often confusing, and online information makes it even more perplexing. But, a clear understanding of the differences between a general dentist, a cosmetic dentist, and a prosthodontist may help. When you know who does what, you are more likely to approach the dentist who specializes in the dental treatment you need. 

When deciding between a general dentist, a cosmetic dentist, and a prosthodontist, it is essential to know the differences from an expert. For instance, for a broken tooth, you may think you need a cosmetic dentistry treatment, but your tooth intricacies and condition may require a more specialized treatment like a prosthodontist procedure.

In this article, Prof. Sam Wise (DDS, MOM, MSc, and MDS) helps you understand a cosmetic dentist, a general dentist, and a prosthodontist in a better way. 

Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist & Prosthodontist

Although all these professions are interlinked, they differ in various aspects. says Prof. Wise. Quintessentially, a general dentist and a cosmetic dentist hold the same degree and initial training and both perform general procedures such as dental checkups, dental crowns, fillings, root canals, and treating gingivitis. But, there are other factors that set these two professions apart when you compare, he adds further.

Prof. Sam Wise explains the main difference between a general dentist and a cosmetic dentist as a general dentist primarily focuses on preventive dental care and routine checkups. However, a cosmetic dentist also takes care of the appearance of your smile and teeth.

While a prosthodontist is professionally recognized as an expert in smile restorative treatments which include dental procedures that are also associated with cosmetic dentistry such as dental implants, veneers,  crowns, and bridges, explains Prof. Wise. 

For example, cosmetic dentists also perform dental implant procedures, but prosthodontists have the specialized training required to navigate patients through the restoration process of dental implants.

Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist & Prosthodontist: Training & Experience

Prof. Sam Wise further reveals that one can also differentiate between a cosmetic dentist, general dentist, and Prosthodontist by their training and experience. 

Every general dentist can take a few courses to learn cosmetic dental treatments and list themselves as cosmetic dentist. You can also say that a cosmetic dentist has to attend a few professional courses and take specific training in the field of aesthetics to acquire the skills to improve the appearance of your teeth. Therefore, one should ideally visit a cosmetic dentist for aesthetic-related treatments such as porcelain veneers, dental crowns, and bonding.

On asking about how a prosthodontist differs from a cosmetic dentist in terms of training and experience, Prof. Wise goes on to explain that a prosthodontist is a specialist recognized by the ADA (American Dental Association), which means a prosthodontist continues to take training on the details of cosmetic dentistry for three of four years additionally after graduating from dental school.

About Professor Sam Wise

Professor Sam Wise (DDS, MOM, MSc, and MDS) is one of the well-acclaimed dentists in Texas, United States. He is trained internationally at the most esteemed dental schools in Germany and the USA. A specialist in aesthetic dentistry and orofacial pain, Dr. Sam Wise focuses on restoring the proper functioning of teeth to deliver a confident smile for his patients.