General dentistry is about keeping your teeth healthy through the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral health issues including tooth decay and infection. Cosmetic dentistry is related to the appearance of your teeth and may include procedures such as tooth whitening and tooth straightening. It can also include veneers, crowns and other ways to improve the appearance of your smile. Both general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry can have a significant impact on your smile, as well as the lifelong health of your teeth and gums.