What Is the Difference Between Aesthetic Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry?
By Dr. Eastwood – Summerbrook Dental & Implants, Fort Worth, TX
The terms aesthetic dentistry and cosmetic dentistry are often used interchangeably — and in most cases, they’re talking about the same thing: improving the appearance of your smile. But if you dig a little deeper, there’s a small difference in how the two are sometimes defined.
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on making teeth look better. The goal is to enhance the color, shape, size, alignment, and overall appearance of your smile. Common cosmetic procedures include:
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Teeth whitening
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Veneers
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Dental bonding
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Clear aligners
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Smile makeovers
Aesthetic dentistry, on the other hand, goes a step further. It aims to improve your smile’s appearance while also preserving natural function and harmony. In aesthetic dentistry, we focus on things like facial balance, bite alignment, and long-term durability — not just how something looks, but how it works with your whole mouth.
Here’s a simple way to think about it:
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Cosmetic dentistry is about looks.
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Aesthetic dentistry is about looks and function.
At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, we bring both approaches together. I’ve had advanced training in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, which means we design smiles that are beautiful, healthy, and built to last. Whether you need veneers, implants, or a full smile makeover, we’ll make sure everything fits your bite, your face, and your goals.
And as always, we’re a no-judgment office. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to move forward, we’ll guide you with compassion, honesty, and expert care.
Whatever you call it — cosmetic or aesthetic — we’re here to help you love your smile again.