Medically Reviewed by Dr. Bryant Birch, DDS on July 31, 2026
Spring has sprung, and summer is almost here. The sun should not be the only thing shining bright this season — your smile is one of the first things people notice, whether you are catching up with friends, meeting new coworkers, posing for vacation photos, or heading out on a first date. If you have been holding back your smile, our team can help you show it off with confidence before the season gets into full swing.
You are not alone if the condition of your teeth makes you hesitant to smile. National research from the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute shows that discomfort with the appearance of the mouth and teeth is common, and that it follows people well beyond social settings. Below is a look at why so many adults hold back, the cosmetic dentistry services that can help, and a few simple habits that keep your smile ready for whatever summer brings.
Why So Many Adults Hold Back Their Smile
A national survey from the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute found that the appearance of a person’s mouth and teeth affects far more than casual conversation. Gaps, crookedness, discoloration, and chips are the most common insecurities patients describe to us, and those insecurities can show up at exactly the moments people want to feel most confident.
The good news is that most of these insecurities have straightforward, well-established solutions. With modern technology and a little encouragement, you have real options for building a smile you are proud to show off.
Cosmetic Dentistry Options to Refresh Your Smile
Every smile is different, so the right fix depends on what is actually bothering you. Some treatment options include the following:
Straightening treatment in particular offers benefits beyond looks. Better alignment supports healthier gums and correct jaw positioning, and it can improve speech and chewing as well.
Veneers or Same-Day Crowns: Which Fixes a Chip Better?
Veneers and same-day crowns both repair a chipped or cracked tooth, but they are suited to different situations. The table below breaks down how the two compare so you have a better sense of what to ask about at your visit.
Get Summer-Ready: Daily Habits That Protect Your Smile
Cosmetic treatment gets your smile where you want it, and a few daily habits help keep it there through the season. Be sure to take care of your smile with the following tips:
- Dental care: Brush twice a day, floss once a day, use mouthwash to reduce bacteria, and avoid smoking or tobacco.
- Eat well and stay hydrated: A balanced diet and plenty of water help your teeth get the nutrients they need and flush out food particles that lead to unwanted bacteria.
- Protect your lips too: Sun exposure adds up quickly outdoors, so use a lip balm with SPF and reapply it throughout the day.
- Visit the dentist: Plan on two cleanings and exams a year so we can check for cavities and any early signs of oral disease.
- Wear a mouthguard: If you play a contact sport or spend time somewhere a fall is likely, a mouthguard helps protect your teeth from chips or loss.
None of these habits require a big time investment, but together they go a long way toward protecting the results of any cosmetic work you have done.
Ready to Show Off Your Smile This Summer?
Dr. Bryant Birch has been caring for smiles in Green River since 2006, when he returned home after dental school to join the practice his own father built. As the practice owner since 2011, he has invested in technology like CEREC same-day crowns and cone beam CT imaging so patients can get more precise, more comfortable treatment in fewer visits.
If you are having trouble feeling confident about your teeth and mouth, our team is happy to walk you through your options and answer any questions before you commit to a treatment plan. Take a look at our smile gallery for a preview of what is possible, then schedule your appointment so we can help you head into summer with a smile you are ready to share.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Your Smile Summer-Ready
How soon will professional teeth whitening show results?
Many patients notice a visibly brighter smile after their first in-office whitening session, with the full result settling in over the following days. Professional whitening uses a stronger, dentist-supervised formula than store-bought kits, which is why the results tend to last longer.
Do veneers or crowns require a lot of tooth preparation?
Veneers typically require only a thin layer of enamel to be removed since they sit on the front surface of the tooth. Crowns cover the entire tooth, so they involve more reshaping. Your dentist can tell you which approach fits your specific chip or crack after an exam.
Are SureSmile clear aligners a good option for adults?
Yes, clear aligners are a popular choice for adults who want straighter teeth without visible metal brackets. They are removable for eating and cleaning, which many adult patients appreciate for everyday convenience and for special summer events.
How do I know which cosmetic treatment is right for me?
The right treatment depends on what you want to change, whether that is color, shape, alignment, or a missing tooth, along with your budget and timeline. A consultation lets your dentist examine your smile and walk through realistic options before you decide on anything.
Will dental insurance cover cosmetic treatments?
Purely cosmetic treatments are often not covered by dental insurance, though some procedures may be partially covered if they also restore function, such as a crown on a cracked tooth. Our team can help you review your plan and discuss financing options during your visit.
About the Author
Practice Owner, Birch Family Dental
A Green River, Wyoming native, Dr. Birch earned his dental doctorate from Creighton University in 2006 and returned home to join the practice his father founded. He became practice owner in 2011 and has since modernized the office with technology like CEREC same-day crowns and cone beam CT imaging.
