Cosmetic Dentistry & The American Dental Association

The term “Esthetic” or “Cosmetic” Dentistry is used frequently in the dental industry.  But, did you know nearly any dentist can call himself a cosmetic dentist? The concept of “Cosmetic Dentistry” is ill defined by the dental industry.  The reason for the quotations around the phrase is because there is no such specialty in dentistry.

The term “Cosmetic Dentistry” is widely used to imply that one particular dentist is more versed in nice appearing outcomes than others.  Of course, this is only a marketing ploy.  A “cosmetic” dentist who calls themselves anything other than a General Dentist is merely attempting to market themselves to a different type of patient or a different demographic.  This marketing ploy implies advanced training or superior results.  The exceptions to this are dental specialists.  (Dentists with a Specialty degree.)  Only a dental specialist can call themselves a specialist, as defined by a recognized specialty designation.

All true dental specialties require at least three additional years of advanced training after dental school.  The 12 recognized dental specialties are: ¹Dental Anesthesiology, ²Orofacial Pain,  ³Oral Medicine, ⁴Endodontics (root canals), ⁵Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, ⁶Pediatric Dentistry (children), ⁷Oral Pathology, ⁸Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, ⁹Orthodontics (braces),   ¹⁰Periodontics (gums),  ¹¹Prosthodontics (reconstructive and esthetic dentistry) and ¹²Public Health (government dentistry).

When reviewing this list you will not the absence of “Cosmetic Dentistry”.  The American Dental Association website, www.ada.org/dental specialties, can be used to verify this information.  On this list of 12 specialties, only one has specific, relative training for the “Esthetic/Cosmetic” component of dentistry. That specialty is Prosthodontics.

You may also notice there is no designated Implant(ologist) specialty. There is none. However, a few specialty programs do include extensive training and emphasis on dental implants:

• Oral/Maxillofacial Surgery
• Periodontics
• Prosthodontics

A Prosthodontist is highly trained in cosmetics, dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, TMJ/TMD and more. They are often referred to as the “architects of dentistry”. To learn more about this specialty, visit the American College of Prosthodontists

To learn more about the options available to treat your own individual needs, CONTACT US and schedule a complimentary consultation. X-rays included. we’re happy to help educate patients on all the options available.