3 Common Dental Flaws & Fantastic Cosmetic Solutions for Addressing Them

July 2, 2025

a patient admiring her smile in a mirror

A confident smile can make all the difference in how we feel about ourselves and how others see us. But many people avoid smiling freely because of concerns about how their teeth look. The good news is that modern cosmetic dentistry offers a wide range of solutions to address these concerns, many of which are more comfortable, convenient, and natural-looking than ever before! Here are some of the most common reasons why people tend to feel self-conscious about their teeth, along with some cosmetic treatments that can help.  

1. Stained or Discolored Teeth

Coffee, tea, wine, tobacco, tomato sauce, and even the natural aging process can leave teeth looking dull or discolored, despite your best brushing efforts! Fortunately, there are various treatment options for dental staining, including professional teeth whitening, which is more effective than any store-bought whitening products you can purchase. Your dentist can perform an in-office whitening treatment or send you home with a take-home kit that allows you to whiten on your own schedule. Either method leaves you with teeth that are several shades brighter than before!

2. Crooked Teeth

Even minor crowding or slight gaps can make people hesitant to smile in photos or social situations. Clear aligners, such as ClearCorrect, can gradually shift teeth into place without the need for traditional braces—as well as an incredible amount of convenience and discretion. Porcelain veneers are another option; in some cases, these small, natural-looking coverings can camouflage mild misalignment or gaps for a quicker solution.  

3. Chipped, Cracked, & Worn Teeth

Teeth can become worn down, chipped, or uneven due to everyday wear and tear, motor accidents, slipping and falling, or bruxism, which refers to teeth grinding. There are numerous ways of addressing these issues, but dental bonding stands out as one of the most popular. A tooth-colored resin can be applied and shaped over the tooth in question to immediately improve its appearance, size, shape, and color. Likewise, porcelain veneers and even all-ceramic dental restorations like crowns can also be used to improve teeth in terms of appearance and function.

If you’ve been hiding your smile because of chips, stains, or other aesthetic concerns, know that there are solutions available—all you have to do is speak with your dentist about your smile goals to get started!

About the Practice

Under the talented leadership of Dr. Ye Wang, our team here at Plum Grove Family Dental has proudly served the needs of families in the area for several years, offering a wide variety of services for patients of all ages. If you’ve been unhappy with your smile recently, rest assured, our team is here to help you find the perfect cosmetic dental solution for sending your confidence soaring! If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to contact us to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, you can reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (847) 221-5860.