What is the difference between a cosmetic dentist and a regular dentist?

Many clients ask, “What is the difference between a cosmetic dentist and a regular dentist?” At The Art of Dentistry we provide both cosmetic dentist services and general dentistry, however our practice is focused on supporting the aesthetic appearance of your teeth, gums, and overall smile. The difference between a cosmetic dentist and a regular dentist comes down to areas of expertise, type of facility, and services provided. At The Art of Dentistry, our physicians offer:

  • Tooth, jaw, and bite alignment analysis 
  • Assessment of gum health and appearance
  • Veneers & CEREC crowns
  • Porcelain veneers
  • Teeth whitening 
  • Invisalign®
  • Maxillofacial Surgery 
  • Tissue Reshaping 
  • Laser gum Surgery

Since no two smiles are the same, we may recommend a combination of treatments to help you look and feel your best. Our 7-step Smile Makeover is designed to deliver custom results based on your needs. Book a consultation to get started, or view our Smile Gallery for examples of our work.

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Doctor during procedure

Cosmetic Dentist Procedures

One of the biggest differences between a cosmetic dentist and a regular dentist is the type of services they specialize in. While a regular dentist will focus on oral care, preventative maintenance, and tooth health, a cosmetic dentist will also offer expertise in tooth whitening, alignment, and prosthetic teeth. At The Art of Dentistry, our nationally-recognized doctors implement advanced cosmetic dentistry services.

Prosthetic Tooth Solutions

A cosmetic dentist has special skills and tools to create and fit prosthetic teeth. We utilize a variety of technologies to achieve the best results, including: 
  • CEREC Crowns
  • Porcelain Veneers
  • Dental Implants
Our in-office CEREC technology can be used to create customized veneers within one day. We also offer porcelain veneers for a realistic and comfortable solution to replace missing or cracked teeth. Whatever material you choose, a cosmetic dentist will be able to craft a prosthetic tooth that compliments your natural smile. Read more about Same-Day Restorative Dentistry here, or book a consultation to learn more.
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Invisalign® & Orthodontic Solutions

A cosmetic dentist can determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign®, a system that allows you to straighten your teeth without the discomfort or look of traditional metal braces. In the case that Invisalign® isn’t the right option for you, a cosmetic dentist can suggest appropriate orthodontic solutions to ensure healthy teeth and jaw alignment.

Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening through a cosmetic dentist often yields better and more immediate results than other solutions. Depending on your customized treatment plan, teeth whitening may be recommended on its own or in combination with other cosmetic dentistry solutions. 

Advanced Surgical Solutions

A cosmetic dentist may offer more advanced aesthetic treatments than a regular dentist can provide. At The Art of Dentistry, our skilled physicians recommend modern solutions to address gum health and jaw alignment, including: 

  • Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Tissue Reshaping
  • Laser Gum Surgery

Want to learn more about these options? Read our Patient Testimonials to learn more or book a complimentary consultation with our team.

Cosmetic Dentistry Training

All dentists must have either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or a DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or Doctor of Dental Medicine). In addition, a cosmetic dentist will hold special qualifications and experience in cosmetic dentistry practices. In fact, our resident Dr. Addleson is one of fewer than 70 dentists in the world to earn the title of Accredited Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Our Dr. Landau completed post-doctoral in cosmetic dentistry and was awarded the title of Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) in 2006. All of our team members have special skills in training in the administering of cosmetic dentistry services, as well as general dentistry procedures. 
Ready to love your smile? Contact us today. 

Our Location

Our San Diego cosmetic dentist office is equipped with the latest safety technology, including: 

  • MERV 16 HEPA Filters and anti-viral Ultraviolet Lights
  • High Speed Suction and Intra-oral and Extraoral Evacuation Instruments 
  • In-Office CEREC® Dental Crown Production
  • Comfortable, private areas for sedation and surgical procedures 

Book a consultation with our team to learn more about our treatments today.