Cosmetic dentistry has grown in popularity over the years, and for good reason. A confident smile can improve your self-esteem, boost your social life, and even benefit your career. But cosmetic dentistry is about more than just looks—it can also improve function, comfort, and oral health. If you’ve ever wondered what types of dental concerns cosmetic dentistry can address, here are some of the most common issues it can fix.
Discolored or Stained Teeth
Teeth naturally darken with age, and factors like coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco use, and certain medications can leave them stained. Professional teeth whitening treatments are one of the simplest cosmetic dentistry procedures, capable of lightening your smile by several shades in just one session. For deeper discoloration that whitening can’t fix, veneers or dental bonding can provide a long-lasting, whiter appearance.
Chipped or Cracked Teeth
Accidents happen, and even a small chip in a tooth can make you self-conscious. Cosmetic dentistry offers several ways to restore damaged teeth. Dental bonding uses tooth-colored resin to rebuild the tooth’s shape, while veneers can cover chips for a flawless appearance. For larger cracks, crowns may be used to both strengthen and restore the tooth’s look.
Gaps Between Teeth
Gapped teeth, also known as diastemas, are a common cosmetic concern. While some people embrace the uniqueness of their gaps, others prefer to close them. Cosmetic dentists can use veneers or bonding to cover spaces and create a more uniform smile. In cases where alignment is the issue, orthodontic treatments like Invisalign may be recommended.
Misaligned or Uneven Teeth
Crooked, crowded, or uneven teeth can be corrected with cosmetic treatments. Invisalign clear aligners are a discreet option for straightening teeth without the look of traditional braces. For those who want instant results, veneers can mask minor alignment issues, giving the appearance of a straighter smile in just a few visits.
Worn-Down Teeth
Over time, teeth can become worn down from grinding (bruxism), aging, or habits like nail-biting. This can make your smile look shorter and uneven. Veneers, crowns, or bonding can restore the natural length and proportion of your teeth, giving your smile a rejuvenated look.
Missing Teeth
Gaps from missing teeth not only affect your smile but also your ability to chew and speak comfortably. Cosmetic dentistry can restore your smile with dental implants, bridges, or dentures. Implants, in particular, are a popular choice because they look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
Uneven Gums or “Gummy Smiles”
If you feel your gums overshadow your teeth when you smile, cosmetic dentistry has a solution. Gum contouring reshapes the gumline to reveal more of your teeth and create a balanced appearance. This procedure can dramatically change how your smile looks.
Cosmetic dentistry can do far more than brighten your smile—it can restore confidence, improve oral function, and help you feel proud every time you laugh or speak. Whether you’re dealing with stains, chips, gaps, or missing teeth, there’s likely a cosmetic solution to fit your needs. A consultation with your dentist can help you explore your options and design a personalized treatment plan to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
About the Author
Dr. Ben A. Sutter is a 2005 graduate of the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. After graduating, he completed a General Practice Residency at the Overlook Medical Center in Summit, NJ. He has been published in numerous publications and earned many professional awards, including Most Innovative Dental Practice in Oregon in 2023. With this kind of training and expertise, you can trust Dr. Sutter and our expert team to improve your smile with cosmetic dentistry. Just schedule your appointment online or call our Eugene office at (541) 484-1955.