The Fine Line Between Esthetic and Cosmetic Dentistry (A Review)

Abstract

BACKGROUND:With the rise of attention to physical appearance in our daily life, esthetics and cosmetics became an integral part of dental practice. Esthetic and cosmetic dentistry are two separate concepts each following specific guidelines. Although there is much confusion and ambiguity between them, there is a fine line differentiating both. Esthetics is often concerned with applying form and function while achieving a natural appearance. Cosmetics on the other hand is usually only about appearances and beauty without much consideration to neither form nor function. There is also an ethical and legal aspect to both concepts. The practitioner must be aware of the background and consequences of each concept before selecting the most appropriate dental procedure. Knowledge of this difference will help the dentist guide the patient during decision making. OBJECTIVES: This review aimed at highlighting the correlation between esthetic dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.