If you’re not in the dental field, dental jargon can be quite confusing. There are numerous branches of dentistry such as periodontics, endodontics, orthodontics, etc. Then there are the types of dentistry that your general dentist can perform including preventive dentistry, restorative dentistry, and/or cosmetic dentistry. What does it all mean? And how do you know which you need: preventive, cosmetic, or restorative?
Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry is all about prevention. It encompasses your bi-annual dental cleanings and exams, your initial X-rays and other diagnostic tests, and oral cancer screenings. You perform preventive dentistry at home, too, when you brush twice a day and floss daily. All of these actions are performed in an effort to keep your teeth strong and clean in order to prevent tooth decay, gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth loss.
Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry on the other hand, restores your dental and oral health should something like decay or gingivitis develop; or should a tooth crack or break, etc. Regardless of how hard you try to prevent dental issues, your teeth are attacked by sugary foods and beverages, harmful oral bacteria, and leftover food debris every day. They also undergo the wear and tear of chewing meats; greens; fruits; veggies; hard, crunchy foods; foods and beverages that stain; bruxing (grinding and clenching); and more. Some restorative dental treatments include:
- Fillings
- Root Canals
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Implants
Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is not designed to prevent or to restore (although restorative procedures can be used in smile make-overs). Cosmetic treatments are performed to beautify your smile. Again, such treatment may include restorative treatments when necessary (such as for a chipped or broken tooth, etc.), but the intent is to make your smile more attractive. Such treatments can include:
- Teeth Whitening
- Bonding
- Contouring
- Gum Contouring
- Veneers
- Botox
You can get treatment for all of the above, at Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury, and more including periodontics, orthodontics, and maxillofacial prosthetics.
Which Type Of Dental Treatment Do You Need?
Wondering what type of dental treatment you need? We can help you figure it out. Call Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury in Shrewsbury, MA, today at (508) 842-8838. We proudly serve patients from Worcester, North and South Grafton, Westborough, Southborough, Northborough, Boylston, Hopkinton, Millbury, and all surrounding communities.
