When you smile at yourself in the mirror, are you happy with the appearance of your teeth and gums? If the answer to that question is no, you may be curious about your options for enhancing the way you look. What can cosmetic dentistry fix? This blog post lists some common aesthetic imperfections and explains how they are often treated.
Stained or Discolored Teeth
It is normal for teeth to become stained over time. The good news is that most types of discoloration can be addressed via teeth whitening services, which use a powerful bleaching formula to break up pigment molecules in teeth. They are often able to brighten teeth by several shades!
For particularly dark or stubborn stains, your cosmetic dentist might recommend that you hide the discoloration with veneers or dental bonding. These options cover unsightly teeth and can be shaded to perfectly complement your facial features and skin tone.
Chipped or Misshapen Teeth
If you had a mishap that chipped one of your teeth, or your teeth are misshapen for other reasons, cosmetic dentistry can help! Veneers and bonding are effective ways to disguise a chip and renew the appearance of a damaged tooth.
Or, if a tooth is worn down or misshapen in other ways, you might need a metal-free crown to cover the entire portion of the tooth that is visible above the gumline. These restorations can look incredibly natural and restore both your tooth’s function and form.
Alignment Problems
If your teeth are overcrowded, gapped, crooked, or otherwise out of alignment, there is a chance that you will need to visit an orthodontist to move them into their proper places.
However, if the misalignment is minor, you might not need to move your teeth! In some cases, veneers can be used as a sort of “instant orthodontics” that can hide things like small gaps, minor crookedness, or a minor open bite. This option is much faster than braces and can address multiple aesthetic imperfections all at once.
A Gummy Smile
Excessive gum tissue can make your teeth appear shorter. To improve the proportions of your smile, you might need to undergo a minor surgery known as gum recontouring. During this procedure, your dentist can use precise instruments to trim away extra gum tissue and reveal more of the underlying dentition.
Old Restorations
If you have an old metal filling or crown, you may not like the way that its color contrasts with your natural smile. Your dentist may be able to replace it with a metal-free, tooth-colored alternative that blends in beautifully with the surrounding teeth.
Cosmetic dentistry can fix a wide range of aesthetic issues! Talk to your dentist to learn more about your options for achieving your dream smile.
Meet the Practice
Dr. David of Blue Wave Dental enjoys interacting with patients and providing them with top-quality care. He and our team offer a wide range of cosmetic services, including whitening, veneers, gum recontouring, and total smile makeovers. To learn more about how we may be able to help you enhance your appearance and discover new confidence, contact our Walnut Creek office at 925-934-3395.