At the Charleston Center for Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry, Dr. John F. Rink, DDS, AAACD, has devoted more than four decades to elevating cosmetic dentistry in South Carolina. As Charleston’s first Accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Rink meets rigorous clinical standards while bringing a rare level of artistry to every case, personally sculpting and finishing many of his restorations. Correcting common smile concerns begins with precise diagnosis, preservation of natural tooth structure, and carefully coordinated treatment planning that balances function with aesthetics. The result is dentistry that looks natural, feels stable, and is built to last. Here is how we approach four of the most frequent concerns we see in our Charleston practice.
Repairing Chipped and Fractured Teeth
A chipped tooth can draw attention away from an otherwise healthy smile. Even small fractures may create rough edges, light reflection changes, or subtle asymmetry.
Our treatment depends on the extent of structural compromise:
- Dental bonding: A precisely layered composite is shaped and polished to restore contour while preserving healthy enamel.
- Porcelain veneers: Custom restorations are crafted and hand-finished by Dr. Rink to correct chips while enhancing proportion and surface texture.
- Same-day CEREC crowns: When a tooth requires full coverage, digital design and in-office milling allow for strength and aesthetics in a single visit.
Every recommendation is guided by a conservative philosophy focused on durability and long-term oral health.
When Gaps Disrupt the Balance of a Smile
Spaces between teeth may result from genetics, tooth size discrepancies, or shifting over time. While some patients appreciate the look of a gap, others feel it disrupts the harmony of their smile.
After evaluating alignment, bite, and facial balance, we may recommend:
- Porcelain veneers: Subtly widening select teeth to close spaces while maintaining ideal proportions.
- Cosmetic bonding: A conservative option for minor spacing that can often be completed efficiently.
- Comprehensive smile design: When spacing is part of a broader aesthetic concern, multiple treatments are coordinated for a cohesive result.
Digital cosmetic imaging allows patients to visualize proposed changes, supporting confident and informed decisions.
Correcting an Uneven Gumline
A disproportionate gumline can make teeth appear short or asymmetrical, even when the teeth themselves are well shaped. Careful analysis of tooth length, lip position, and smile dynamics determines whether gum contouring is appropriate.
We address uneven gums through:
- Cosmetic gum reshaping: Precise contouring reveals natural tooth structure and improves symmetry.
- Integrated restorative planning: When indicated, gum refinement is combined with veneers or crowns to achieve balanced tooth-to-gum proportions.
By evaluating the entire smile rather than a single feature, we create results that feel intentional and refined.
Restoring Natural Brightness
Tooth discoloration can stem from surface staining, aging enamel, trauma, or internal changes within the tooth. Identifying the source of discoloration is essential before selecting treatment.
Depending on the diagnosis, we may recommend:
- Professional whitening: Advanced systems such as KöR whitening target deep stains while protecting enamel.
- Porcelain veneers: Ideal for intrinsic discoloration that does not respond predictably to whitening.
- Restorative correction: In cases involving prior dental work, replacing outdated restorations can create a more uniform shade.
The objective is not an artificial brightness, but a healthy, natural appearance that complements each patient’s features.
A Thoughtful Approach to Lasting Results
At the Charleston Center for Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry, cosmetic improvement is never one size fits all. Dr. Rink applies AACD Accreditation standards, advanced technology, and decades of experience to correct common smile problems with precision and restraint. If smile problems are affecting your confidence, schedule a consultation with our Charleston office to discover how a carefully designed plan can restore strength, balance, and lasting beauty to your smile.