What Issues Can Cosmetic Dentistry Fix?

July 4, 2025

Dentist examining patient's smile.

A bright, confident smile can make a lasting impression. But if you feel self-conscious about your teeth, you may find yourself holding back from smiling or laughing. That’s where cosmetic dentistry comes in. Cosmetic dental treatments go beyond improving oral health—they focus on enhancing the appearance of your teeth and gums. Whether you’re dealing with discoloration, misalignment, or missing teeth, cosmetic dentistry offers solutions that can transform your smile.

Common Issues Cosmetic Dentistry Can Address

Stained or Discolored Teeth

One of the most common concerns patients have is tooth discoloration. Coffee, tea, wine, smoking, and even aging can cause your teeth to lose their natural brightness. Professional teeth whitening, veneers, or bonding can restore a whiter, more youthful look.

Chipped or Cracked Teeth

Accidents or daily wear and tear can lead to chips or cracks in your teeth. Cosmetic treatments such as dental bonding, veneers, or crowns can repair the damage, restoring both function and appearance.

Gaps Between Teeth

Spaces between teeth can make some people feel insecure about their smile. Cosmetic dentistry offers options like veneers or Invisalign to close gaps and create a more even appearance.

Crooked or Misaligned Teeth

Not all alignment issues require traditional braces. Invisalign and other clear aligners are discreet, comfortable alternatives that can straighten teeth without the noticeable wires and brackets of metal braces.

Uneven or Worn Teeth

Grinding your teeth or natural wear can lead to uneven edges or teeth that appear too short. Cosmetic contouring, bonding, or veneers can reshape your teeth for a balanced, harmonious smile.

Missing Teeth

A missing tooth doesn’t just affect your smile—it can also impact your bite and oral health. Cosmetic solutions such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures restore your smile’s appearance and function.

Gummy Smiles

If you feel your gums overshadow your teeth when you smile, gum contouring can help. This cosmetic procedure reshapes the gum line to reveal more of your natural tooth structure.

The Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry does more than improve appearances. It can also:

  • Boost confidence: A smile you love encourages you to express yourself more freely.
  • Support oral health: Fixing alignment, gaps, or damaged teeth often improves function and makes cleaning easier.
  • Provide long-lasting results: Many cosmetic treatments, such as veneers or implants, can last for years with proper care.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Right for You?

If you’re unhappy with the way your teeth look, a cosmetic dentist can help determine which treatments are right for your needs and goals. From minor touch-ups to complete smile makeovers, cosmetic dentistry has the power to correct a wide range of dental imperfections.


Cosmetic dentistry can fix issues like staining, chips, gaps, misalignment, missing teeth, and even gummy smiles. With so many modern treatment options available, achieving the smile you’ve always wanted is more accessible than ever.

About the Practice

Here at Shea Dental of Scottsdale, we understand that issues with your smile can affect your health and confidence. That’s why we offer an array of cosmetic services to beautify your look. Whether it’s our in-office whitening or take-home kits, laser gum contouring, veneers, or one of our other procedures, we can get you looking right in no time! Our dentists have an artistic eye towards beauty and precision, and you’re sure to get the best care that money can buy. Schedule your appointment online or call (480) 998-3923.