5 Common Smile Flaws Cosmetic Dentistry Can Fix

Do you ever find yourself covering your mouth when you laugh? Maybe you avoid photos or feel shy about your smile because of stained, chipped, or uneven teeth. If that sounds familiar, you’re definitely not alone, and you don’t have to settle for a smile that makes you feel self-conscious.

Our experienced team is proud to offer personalized smile makeovers in Santa Rosa designed to help you love your smile again. Whether you’re looking for a small touch-up or a complete transformation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s look at five of the most common flaws that keep people from loving their smiles and how cosmetic dentistry can fix them.

1. Chipped or Cracked Teeth

Accidents happen! Maybe you bit down on something hard, or had a minor injury, and now you’ve got a chip or crack in your tooth. Not only can this feel rough or sharp, but it can also make you feel self-conscious when you smile. 

The great news is that there are several ways to repair the damage. For example, we may be able to repair very small chips with dental bonding, which involves adding tooth-colored composite resin just like what we use in cavity fillings.

However, porcelain veneers offer a more durable, longer-lasting, stain-resistant solution that can restore your tooth to its ideal shape and size while covering unsightly damage. For more significant cracks that put the health of your tooth at risk, we may recommend a dental crown to completely cover and surround it, stabilizing the tooth and preventing further damage.

2. Stained or Discolored Teeth

If your teeth aren’t as white as they used to be, you’re definitely not alone. Coffee, tea, red wine, and even just getting older can stain your teeth over time. Luckily, there are a few great ways to brighten your smile! 

Professional teeth whitening can lift many surface stains and give you a fresh, bright look. If stains are deeper and whitening isn’t enough, we might recommend veneers or bonding to cover the discoloration and give you long-lasting results. No matter the cause, we can help you find the best option to get your smile glowing again.

3. Gaps Between Your Teeth or Other Alignment Issues

Many people have small spaces between their teeth that make them feel self-conscious. These gaps can also collect food and be harder to clean, leading to gum issues. If you have gaps and want a solution, there are plenty of cosmetic dentistry options! 

For small gaps, bonding is a quick and easy way to fill the space and make your teeth look more even. Veneers are a permanent option that can reshape your smile while closing gaps at the same time, which is also a great option for small “black triangles” that can appear when the gums don’t fully fill the space above where your teeth meet. 

If the gaps are larger or your teeth are crooked or crowded, clear aligners might be the way to go, especially if your alignment issues affect your bite. Our team will help you choose the best option for your smile and your oral health based on your needs and goals.

4. Misshapen or Undersized Teeth

Not everyone is born with perfectly shaped teeth, and that’s okay! Some teeth might be shorter, pointier, skinnier, or just not quite match the rest of your smile. If that sounds familiar, cosmetic dentistry can help create balance and harmony in your smile. 

Porcelain veneers are an excellent option to create the ideal size, shape, and proportions for each tooth in your smile. In some cases, we may be able to gently contour and reshape your natural enamel to correct certain types of shape issues. In either case, you’ll get a smile that looks natural, even, and uniquely yours.

5. Worn Down Teeth That Look Too Flat

Over time, teeth can get worn down from grinding, clenching, or just everyday use. Worn teeth can make your smile look older and sometimes even cause discomfort and sensitivity. The good news is that cosmetic dentistry can rebuild and restore those teeth so they look and feel great again. 

Depending on how much wear there is, bonding, veneers, or crowns can all be used to add back what’s been lost. Our team will take a close look and recommend the right treatment to rebuild your smile and protect your teeth long-term.

Ready to Love Your Smile Again?

If you see yourself in any of these common smile flaws, don’t worry. You have options! Cosmetic dentistry offers solutions that can be quick, comfortable, and tailored just for you. 

At our Santa Rosa office, Dr. Andrew McCormick and our team are here to listen to your goals and help you feel confident every time you smile. Whether you’re interested in a small fix or a full smile makeover, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

As one of only 350 dentists in the country accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re experts in creating completely custom smile makeovers. We’ll walk you through the costs upfront and help you explore flexible cosmetic dentistry financing options so you can get the care you want without stress.If you’re thinking about cosmetic dentistry, there’s no better time to start. Schedule a consultation for a smile makeover in Santa Rosa today and take the first step toward a flawless smile!

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