General Dentist vs. Cosmetic Dentist: What’s the Difference

When it comes to maintaining your oral health and achieving a beautiful smile, understanding the difference between a general dentist and a cosmetic dentist can help you choose the right professional for your needs. While both play vital roles in dental care, their focus areas and treatments vary. At Bigger Smiles, we provide both general and cosmetic dental services to ensure every patient enjoys a healthy, confident smile.

What Does a General Dentist Do?

A general dentist focuses on the overall health and function of your teeth and gums. Their primary goal is to prevent, diagnose, and treat oral health problems before they become serious. Regular check-ups, professional cleanings, fillings, root canals, and extractions all fall under general dentistry.

At Bigger Smiles, our general dental care includes:

• Preventive care: Routine exams, scale and cleans, and fluoride treatments.
• Restorative treatments: Fillings, crowns, and bridges to restore damaged teeth.
• Oral health education: Helping patients maintain healthy habits at home.

General dentists are often your first point of contact for any dental concerns, focusing on long-term oral health and functional care.

What Does a Cosmetic Dentist Do?

A cosmetic dentist, on the other hand, specialises in improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. While general dentists prioritise oral health, cosmetic dentists enhance aesthetics — giving patients the confidence that comes with a beautiful smile.

At Bigger Smiles, our cosmetic dentist services include:

• Teeth Whitening: Professional whitening for brighter, stain-free teeth.
• Veneers: Thin porcelain shells that transform the shape and colour of your teeth. Dental Bonding: Repairing chips, gaps, or minor imperfections with composite material.
• Smile Makeovers: Customised plans combining multiple treatments for a complete smile transformation.

Cosmetic dentistry not only improves how your smile looks but can also boost self-esteem and overall well-being.

Which Dentist Should You See?

If you’re experiencing pain, decay, or any functional issue, a general dentist is the right choice. But if you’re looking to enhance your smile’s appearance — from whitening and veneers to alignment — a cosmetic dentist is ideal.

At Bigger Smiles, we offer the best of both worlds. Our experienced team combines advanced dental technology with a patient-focused approach to deliver healthy, natural-looking smiles.

Whether you need a check-up or a full smile makeover, trust Bigger Smiles for expert care and results you’ll love.