Is restorive dentistry the same as cosmetic dentistry?

and do u have to go to a special school to study cosmetic dentistry or do some universities do it?

Yes. Restorative dentistry includes cosmetic dental procedures. That's why there is no such recognized specialty as "cosmetic dentistry" (in the USA and Canada at least).

Dentists can indeed take continuing education (CE) courses in the latest developments and techniques in restorative dentistry and cosmetic techniques, yes. CE courses are required to keep a dental license current.

Hope this helps

EDITED TO ADD for Emily below: Restorative dentistry includes everything that restores function to damaged teeth or mouth missing teeth. That means fillings, veneers, crowns, bridges, dentures, etc. And of course those things all need to look "cosmetic."

Closing cleft palates and facial reconstruction for accident victims would be surgical, and that sort of thing is handled by specialists in oromaxillofacial surgery. These specialists are oral surgeons, and they are dentists who had additional formal training in surgery after dental school.

Since you are not a dentist and you probably didn't know any better, I'll refrain from giving you a low rating. (don't be surprised if other dentists do though). :-D

I think they are basically the same

well, restorative dentistry is for people that have say, a cleft pallet, or have been in an accident & have really messed up their mouths. then the dentist (who's went to dental school & then specialized in restorative dentistry), can go in & repair the damage.

in cosmetic dentistry, the dentist would be able to help someone with discolored teeth, & things like that.

as far as going to dental school, i'm under the impression that you go to a four year college & get a bachelor of science degree in dentistry (or something related to that), then go on to a dental college. a dental college can be in a university.

OK, sorry Emily, but your answer is wrong.
Restorative means anything that restores the teeth, just as thddspc says above. General dentists practice restorative dentistry.

There are "special schools" where a dentist can learn cosmetic techniques such as LVI in Las Vegas, but it is not a true recognized specialty.

In fact, ALL dentistry should be cosmetic. Anything dentists do should look good in the mouth.