Stronger Foundations. Brighter Results. Whole-Smile Health.
When it comes to dental care, there’s more than one type of treatment — and more than one goal. General dentistry focuses on prevention and function, while cosmetic dentistry improves the appearance of your smile. Together, they create a strong foundation and a confident finish.
At Robert Perry Dental, we help patients combine both approaches in a way that fits their goals, timeline, and comfort — with care that protects your health while enhancing your smile.
1. General Dentistry Protects Long-Term Oral Health
General dental care includes the treatments most people are familiar with — exams, cleanings, fillings, and more. These services help prevent and treat problems early.
General dentistry includes:
- Preventive exams and cleanings
- Fillings for cavities
- Periodontal (gum) care
- Monitoring for decay or damage
This type of care is the foundation for all other dental treatments — and helps keep your mouth healthy and functional over time.
2. Cosmetic Dentistry Improves the Look of Your Smile
Cosmetic care focuses on how your smile looks — but it often overlaps with function too. These treatments are ideal for patients looking to realign, rebuild, or refine their teeth.
Common cosmetic treatments include:
- Veneers
- Invisalign® clear aligners
- Tooth-colored bonding
Cosmetic dentistry enhances the aesthetics of your smile — which often boosts confidence and improves daily comfort.
3. One Supports the Other
Here’s the truth: You can’t have great cosmetic results without a healthy foundation. That’s why general care comes first.
Why this matters:
- Healthy gums = better cosmetic results
- Fixing decay prevents future cosmetic damage
- A stable bite supports long-term results
Cosmetic work is the finishing touch — not a substitute for foundational care. At Robert Perry Dental, we guide patients through both.
4. It’s Okay to Start Wherever You Are
Whether you’re overdue for a cleaning or already thinking about smile upgrades, there’s no wrong place to start. We help patients build a plan that works step by step — from routine exams to cosmetic goals.
Our team will:
- Assess your current dental health
- Recommend priority care first
- Map out cosmetic options that fit your goals
There’s no pressure — just a plan that works for your timeline and smile.
5. Your Smile Reflects Both Health and Confidence
A beautiful smile is more than just looks — it reflects good health, positive habits, and self-confidence. By combining general and cosmetic care, you can protect what matters while loving what you see.
When both work together, you get:
- Stronger teeth and gums
- Fewer dental problems
- A smile you feel great showing off
It’s not just about fixing — it’s about feeling confident in your everyday smile.
Build a Healthy, Confident Smile That Lasts
General and cosmetic dentistry aren’t separate paths — they’re partners in helping you feel great about your smile. Whether you’re just starting with a checkup or ready for cosmetic upgrades, Robert Perry Dental is here to support every step.
Let’s build a smile that’s healthy, functional, and truly yours.
FAQs: General vs Cosmetic Dentistry
Q1: What’s the difference between general and cosmetic dentistry?
General dentistry focuses on health, function, and prevention. Cosmetic dentistry enhances the appearance of your smile.
Q2: Do I need general dental work before cosmetic treatments?
Usually yes — we want to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy before starting any cosmetic improvements.
Q3: What if I’m only interested in veneers or Invisalign?
We’ll assess your oral health first. If everything looks good, we can help you start cosmetic treatment right away.
Q4: Can I combine general and cosmetic treatments in a plan?
Absolutely. We often phase care to make it easier and more manageable for patients.

