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Common Cosmetic Dental Problems

Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, Oakleaf, Orange Park

Cosmetic dentistry can solve more than purely aesthetic problems – it can also solve serious problems that threaten the dental health underlying your smile. Many dental problems that may seem to be only cosmetic can actually damage the health of your teeth over time.

Discoloration and staining

Dull, discolored, or stained teeth look unattractive and unhealthy and can make you look older than you are. They make other cosmetic dental problems, such as crooked teeth, more noticeable.

Most discoloration can be removed with tooth whitening. If you have deep staining that is resistant to whitening you can choose another cosmetic dentistry solution such as porcelain veneers.

Gaps between your teeth

Gaps between your teeth can cause pain when you chew and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. If the gaps are between your top front teeth, they can give your smile a child-like appearance. Small gaps can be covered with porcelain veneers. Larger gaps can be filled by building up the teeth on either side of the gap with dental bonding.

Slight crookedness, misshapenness, and uneven sizes

These are problems that call for some reshaping. Dr. Blankenship can use minimally invasive procedures to make your teeth look straight, properly shaped, and evenly sized. Porcelain veneers are the most popular option for these types of problems.

Sometimes teeth appear to be unevenly sized or too short due to problems with the gum line and that can be easily corrected by laser gum recontouring. It is a short appointment and very effective with little-to-no discomfort afterwards.

Missing teeth

Missing teeth can be embarrassing, can affect the way you speak, and can lead to serious dental problems. The best solution for a missing tooth is a dental implant. The new tooth attached to that artificial tooth root will look, feel, and function like your natural tooth and the new root will preserve your gums and jawbone.

Chips and cracks

Chips and cracks can become discolored and sensitive and can lead to decay. Porcelain veneers or dental bonding can be used to seal and cover chips and cracks while restoring the beauty of your smile. More serious cracks that weaken the tooth may require a tooth crown.

Gum problems

Too much gum tissue or an uneven gum line can spoil the symmetry of your smile or give it a “gummy” look. Excessive gum tissue can cause irritation. Gum recontouring corrects your gum line and improves your smile by removing unwanted gum tissue. It is a quick procedure with little or no post-treatment discomfort.

Old fillings

Old metal fillings are unsightly and will eventually fracture your teeth. They will also breakdown at the margins and decay can develop inside the tooth. Dr. Blankenship can replace them with beautiful tooth-colored fillings. When he does this, he will check for and correct any damage caused by your old fillings such as cracks or decay.

To learn more about cosmetic dentistry and solutions to your cosmetic dental problems, please contact us today. We will be happy to schedule your complimentary cosmetic dental consultation with Dr. Blankenship and his expertly trained team in the Ponte Vedra and Oakleaf, Jacksonville, Florida area.