Cosmetic dentistry is more accessible than ever. These days, you don’t have to be a movie star to achieve a smile that’s suitable for a red carpet premiere. If you’re unhappy with certain aspects of your teeth, there are a variety of treatments designed to improve their appearance. Here are 4 common smile issues that cosmetic dentistry can help improve.
1. Stained or Discolored Teeth
Teeth can become discolored for many reasons, including aging, certain foods and drinks, tobacco use, and some medications. Professional teeth whitening can often brighten natural teeth and reduce certain types of staining.
For deeper discoloration or stains that don’t respond well to whitening, treatments such as veneers or bonding may provide another option. Your dentist can determine which approach is appropriate based on the cause of the discoloration.
2. Chipped or Misshapen Teeth
A small chip can make an otherwise healthy tooth stand out. Teeth can also be naturally uneven, worn down, or oddly shaped.
Dental bonding is one cosmetic option that can reshape certain teeth using tooth-colored composite material. Veneers may be another option for some patients who want to change the shape, size, or appearance of visible teeth.
Your dentist will consider the amount of natural tooth structure available and your overall oral health before recommending treatment.
3. Gaps Between Teeth
Small spaces between teeth can be a natural part of your smile, but some people prefer a more uniform appearance. Depending on the size and location of the gap, cosmetic bonding or veneers may be used to change the appearance of the space.
In other situations, orthodontic treatment or clear aligners may be more appropriate, particularly when tooth movement is needed rather than simply changing the shape of the teeth.
4. Uneven or Worn Teeth
Teeth that are uneven in size or have become worn over time can affect the appearance of your smile. Grinding, clenching, age, and certain dental conditions can contribute to tooth wear.
Cosmetic treatments such as bonding, veneers, or crowns may help restore the appearance of worn or uneven teeth when appropriate. However, your dentist should identify and address the underlying cause of significant wear before completing cosmetic treatment.
Before beginning cosmetic treatment, schedule a consultation with your dentist. They can examine your teeth, discuss your concerns, explain your options, and help you understand what results each treatment can realistically provide.
About the Author
Dr. A. Faris Waheed has more than 15 years of experience practicing dentistry, more than 10 of them spent right here in Jacksonville, FL. He’s a graduate of the prestigious Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and an active member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. To learn more about cosmetic treatments and other services Dr. Waheed and his team offer, visit his website or call (904) 748-4900.