Do “Cosmetic” Dentists Do “Regular” Dentistry?

By Josh Bernstein, DDS

One of the most common dental questions I am asked around town is “Do you do ‘regular’ dentistry?”    The answer is “Yes!”   I do all aspects of dentistry—fillings, inlays, crowns, veneers, bridges, etc.  While we are known for our cosmetic dentistry, we bring this same level of care to our “regular” dentistry.

Cosmetic Dentistry is for all teeth, not just the front teeth.  It is 21st Century dental work that not only looks real, it feels comfortable and is engineered to last a long time.  For decades, dentists have practiced old-fashioned dentistry, using gold crowns, mercury fillings, and white “caps.”  For better or worse, this historical dentistry is still widely used.  Cosmetic Dentistry utilizes lasers, computers, and high tech materials, along with an artistic eye, to make teeth like new again.  Cosmetic Dentistry is also a consumer-oriented approach of asking people what they want and giving it to them.  Smile design with porcelain veneers is a big part of our practice, but much of the care that we provide is “regular” dental work using today’s newest materials and techniques.   The advantages are 1) no mercury 2) less drilling 3) teeth become stronger 4) less sensitivity 5) it looks real. 

A small percentage of dentists, who are interested in providing their patients with the state of the art, seek out training at LVI, where I am fortunate to be a Clinical Instructor.  At LVI, these dentists are so highly trained that they are able to provide all facets of dentistry that is healthy, comfortable, durable, and results in an incredibly beautiful smile.

Because of my own experience with an uncomfortable bite, we pay very close attention to bite problems, frequently relieving TMJ symptoms, such as headaches and jaw tension.

A lot of people have had bad experiences at the dentist in the past.  We like to make the experience a lot nicer.  Imagine an environment that feels more like a spa than a clinic!  The magazines are all brand new.   I give out my home phone number.  We run on time.   And we only schedule one patient at a time.  It is truly a “private” practice, where compassion is genuine.

For people who have a difficult time going to the dentist and for people who simply prefer to be sedated, we prescribe a safe, common sleeping pill.  Not all patients need this!  For those that choose sedation, it “works like a dream,” enabling people to arrive relaxed and doze on and off through their appointments. 

Cosmetic Dentistry is more than just “cosmetic.”  When performed properly, it’s “regular” dental work that looks realistic and makes teeth like new again. Most importantly, it’s about treating people as unique individuals whose needs are valid and respected. As The Mayo Clinic says, “The best interest of the patient is the only interest to be considered.”  If this is what you are looking for in a “regular” dentist, then Cosmetic Dentistry is for you!

Dr. Bernstein is a longtime Piedmont resident in private practice in Piedmont at Grand Ave. and Linda (upstairs).  He is a clinical instructor at world-renowned LVI, teaching dentists from all around the world the art of impeccable cosmetic dentistry.  He is an internationally known author and lecturer.  Dr. Bernstein can be reached at 601-SMILE (601-7645) or at www.allnewsmiles.com.