Cosmetic Dentistry VS Restorative Dentistry: Which is Right for Me?

The dental field is constantly evolving through new innovations. This transforms the services you receive to create a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts. Although dental care focuses on prevention, many patients have imperfect teeth. Whether from disease, decay, trauma, genetics, or another issue, your cosmetic dentist in Waterbury can fix your teeth; however, you might also need restorative dentistry. While they are considered separate forms of treatment, now they often overlap. Here’s what you need to know to achieve your best smile possible.

What is Restorative Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry refers to reinstating the health and function of a tooth using specific treatments, like fillings, crowns, root canals, or dental implants. The procedures are necessary to ensure optimal oral health and functions necessary for daily life, like chewing. Common restorative treatments include:

• Fillings
• Crowns
• Dental bridge and crowns
• Root canal therapy
• Dentures and partials
• Dental implants
• Wisdom tooth extractions
• Full-mouth reconstruction

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry differs because it focuses on aesthetics, like the color, size, and shape of the teeth. The procedures aren’t necessary for your oral health. Instead, they are elective treatments to improve the appearance and balance of your smile.

Depending on your individual needs, you might benefit from:

• Teeth whitening
• Cosmetic bonding
• Porcelain veneers
• All-ceramic crowns

Can I Combine Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry?

Now, restorative and cosmetic dentistry often overlap. There are some cosmetic treatments that can also improve the health of a tooth, like all-ceramic crowns or tooth-colored fillings. You can restore a healthy, functional smile using solutions that look natural by combining the two forms of dentistry.

Will My Dental Insurance Cover Both?

Every policy differs, but most dental insurance carriers will only cover restorative treatments, like crowns and fillings. After paying your annual deductible, you’re given a yearly allowance to use toward the services you need to keep your smile healthy.

Typically, cosmetic dentistry isn’t covered under insurance policies because it isn’t necessary for your oral health, but there are some exceptions. If your dentist in Waterbury deems a cosmetic treatment essential for your oral health or functions, your insurance may pay a portion of the cost, such as an all-ceramic crown.

Your dentist will work on your behalf with your insurance carrier to file the necessary claims and paperwork to reduce the amount you need to pay. They will explain any remaining balance and your payment options, so you can get a healthy, beautiful smile without breaking the bank.

Get the Smile You Deserve

Your dentist performs an extensive consultation and discusses the results you want to achieve to determine if restorative or cosmetic dentistry is right for you. You will get the smile of your dreams using personalized solutions.

About Waterbury Smiles

Dr. Marini and Dr. Mancini strive to create healthy, attractive smiles that last. We are specially trained in restorative and cosmetic dentistry to keep the services you need under one roof. No matter if you have a damaged tooth or want to improve your smile, we can help. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.