General dentistry focuses on preventive, diagnostic, and basic restorative dental care to maintain oral health. This includes routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and gum disease treatment. On the other hand, cosmetic dentistry primarily focuses on improving the appearance of teeth and smiles. Procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, and dental bonding fall under cosmetic dentistry. While there can be overlap between the two, the main difference lies in the primary objective of each field.