What is traditional dentistry?
Traditional dentistry refers to the essential dental work undertaken in dentistry, which is used to prevent damage, maintain teeth, and save them when necessary. Traditional dentistry isn’t about aesthetics, but function, comfort and health.
What treatments does this include?
The types of treatments and materials used will depend on whether the treatment is provided under the NHS or by a private dentist.
NHS Dentists
Patients receiving treatment through the NHS are given less flexibility in terms of treatment plans and materials being used. For instance, patients receiving a filling on the back molar are more likely to have amalgam used. Amalgam is silver, which can create an unnatural and unappealing aesthetic. Composite resin is often only used on front teeth when needed at NHS dental practices.
NHS dentists often focus on maintaining the function and structure, rather than the cosmetic outcomes. That’s not to say quality is compromised, but the aesthetics can be.
Essential work covered by the NHS is covered under three price bands. The first covers basic treatments like an examination for the patient’s routine check-up, as well as:
- Bite impressions to get a sense of how the patient’s teeth come together
- X-rays for diagnosis
- Basic adjustments for dentures and orthodontics
- Scaling the teeth, if essential, and doing a basic cleaning of the teeth
- Applying fluoride to the teeth
In band two, more extensive tooth-saving treatments are covered. Ranging from fillings to extractions and root canals. This band also encompasses all of the treatments in the first band.
In band three, more extensive treatments are included along with bands one and two. This band provides dental care that often involves dental prostheses or necessitates complex long-term treatment, like with orthodontics.
Private dentists
A private dentist provides essential dental care while elevating the quality of care for basic treatments. Each private dental practice will have its set rates and unique approaches to tackling traditional dentistry. At Wimpole Street Dental clinic, we implement the latest dental techniques, with the highest-quality materials, to create seamless and natural aesthetics.
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry, also known as aesthetic dentistry, refers to the aesthetic side of dentistry, where adjustments can be made to enhance the aesthetic of the smile. This can be done by altering the shape, size, position and colour of the teeth.
There is a plethora of treatments that can be used to elevate the appearance of the teeth, including treatments like:
- Invisalign
- Ceramic braces
- Composite bonding
- Veneers
- Teeth whitening
Aesthetic vs traditional dentistry
The key differences between cosmetic and traditional dentistry are the necessity of needing it done. All traditional dentistry is undertaken and performed because it is essential for preserving the health of the tooth.
Cosmetic treatments are often seen as non-essential because the aesthetic of the teeth doesn’t necessarily impact the function or health of. As such, NHS dentists won’t offer treatments like teeth whitening or veneers.
Cosmetic dentistry is considered non-essential; however, some people find that their confidence and self-esteem are directly affected by the appearance of their teeth. For those individuals, cosmetic enhancements may feel essential to feeling good about themselves.
If you’re considering making the switch to a private dentist in London, we at Wimpole Street Dental Clinic are able to deliver expert care. Each treatment performed at our clinic is meticulously executed, providing comfortable and quality experiences. Simply book a consultation to start your journey to exceptional dental health.