6 Common Smile Problems and How to Fix Them
We all have things we want to change about our appearance. That’s normal and human.
Some things are out of your reasonable control. If you’re 5′ 2″, you’re probably never going to be a 6′ 8″ star basketball player (assuming you’re not up for any extreme surgical procedures!).
Many years ago, your teeth used to fall into that category. If you were born with a “gummy” smile, oddly shaped teeth, or stubborn discoloration, there was only so much you could do to fix it.
Here’s the great news: This is no longer true!
Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way, especially in recent years. If you’re ashamed of your smile and assumed you’re stuck with what you’ve got, think again.
Fixing imperfections is absolutely possible, and probably easier than you’ve ever imagined!
In this article, we’ll cover the top 6 smile complaints we hear all the time and how to fix them, including:
- Yellow or stained teeth
- Gray, dull, or blue-tinted teeth
- Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
- “Gummy” smile or receding gum line
- Missing teeth
- Crooked, gapped, or oddly spaced teeth
Problem: yellow or stained teeth
Fix: teeth whitening
We’ll warm up with the number one thing most people want to change about their smile – yellow or stained teeth.
Fortunately, this one is also the easiest to fix.
Teeth whitening is an easy, fast, and affordable way to give your dull smile a boost.
There are lots of ways to whiten your teeth, though some are more effective than others.
You could buy whitening products at any drugstore, such as toothpaste, strips, or whitening kits. These over-the-counter products are where most people start when they want whiter teeth.
Drugstore products work great at removing minor, surface-level staining. However, buyer beware – Many people find they don’t work very well or cause painful sensitivity.
If that’s you, don’t worry! You may need the help of a dental pro.
Professional teeth whitening is an excellent option if you’re looking to get serious about a whiter smile.
Dental professionals safely use higher concentrations of whitening formulas that are much more effective than weak drugstore products. They carefully target the treatment for your unique needs, avoiding sensitive areas of the mouth like your gums.
That means two things:
- More dramatic whitening results
- Less pain and sensitivity
Professional teeth whitening options include both in-office treatments for instant results and take-home options to maintain your whitening conveniently.
Problem: gray, dull, or blue-tinted teeth
Fix: porcelain veneers
Teeth become discolored for several reasons. Surface-level staining from food, drink, or smoking typically responds well to teeth whitening.
However, gray, dull, or blue-tinted teeth are usually signs of intrinsic staining deep within the tooth. Teeth whitening doesn’t work as well in this case.
A better solution would be porcelain veneers.
Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that adhere to the front surface of your teeth. They cover up your existing discolored teeth for a natural, gorgeously white look.
Discolored teeth are just one of the many cosmetic issues porcelain veneers fix. Read on to learn more.
Bring Your Dream Smile to Life
Problem: chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
Fix: porcelain veneers, crowns, or bonding
Porcelain veneers are also great at fixing chipped, cracked, or broken teeth.
The thin veneers permanently bond to the front of your teeth, strengthening the underlying natural tooth and covering up any imperfections.
In some cases, a crown (a synthetic cap for a tooth) or dental bonding is a better solution.
A qualified cosmetic and restorative dentist in Federal Way, WA can help you weigh your options and decide what’s best for you.
Problem: “gummy” smile or receding gum line
Fix: gum contouring
Do your teeth look short and stubby?
There’s likely nothing wrong with your teeth. You may have excessive gum tissue, making them appear smaller than they are.
Gum contouring is a cosmetic procedure that involves shaping your gums, often removing the unwanted gum tissue.
Grafting is used for the opposite problem – when you don’t have enough gum tissue due to a receding gum line.
Your dentist adds gum tissue to cover up the recessed areas, which also helps with sensitivity issues.
Learn More About Gum Contouring
Problem: missing teeth
Fix: dental implants, crowns, or bridges
Missing teeth are more than a cosmetic issue – they have serious consequences to your oral health.
When you’re missing a tooth, the underlying jawbone quickly deteriorates, putting your facial structure at risk.
It also gives your face an older, “sunken in” look. No one wants that!
Luckily, you’ve got options.
Dental implants are the number one missing teeth replacement solution. They look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth.
In some cases, a crown or dental bridge may be a better choice for your needs.
A restorative dentist will evaluate your needs and help you find an appropriate solution.
Problem: crooked, gapped, or oddly spaced teeth
Fix: porcelain veneers or orthodontics
When your teeth are severely misaligned, you’ll likely need orthodontic work.
However, in more minor cases, porcelain veneers are a great option as well!
Porcelain veneers are the ultimate smile fixers. In addition to their whitening superpowers and ability to cover up chips and cracks, they also hide alignment imperfections.
Ready to take the next step toward a beautiful smile?
The critical first step is finding a great cosmetic dentist who understands your vision and helps you get there.
In many ways, cosmetic dentistry is an art form. A skilled cosmetic dentist leverages a breadth of skills and techniques to craft the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
At Federal Way General & Laser Dentistry, we have what it takes to fix almost any cosmetic issue.
Dr. Jonathon Einowski is an experienced cosmetic and restorative dentist who leverages advanced laser dentistry technology and techniques to bring you top-notch results.
Many patients especially love that laser dentistry makes cosmetic procedures as quick and comfortable as possible. Getting a beautiful smile doesn’t have to be painful!
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Einowski today!
Or contact us via one of these other convenient ways:
- Call us: 253-839-5953
- Email us: office@laserdentistrywa.com
Our office is located in Federal Way, WA. We also serve surrounding communities in SeaTac, Des Moines, Auburn, Kent, Edgewood, and Browns Point.
