When it comes to enhancing appearance, many people turn to cosmetic surgery for the cheeks, eyes, or jawline. But one of the most impactful—and lasting—transformations comes not from a surgeon, but from a cosmetic dentist.
At Tri-Cities Center for Cosmetic Dentistry in Kingsport, Tennessee, smile transformations are a specialty. Led by the region’s only Accredited Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Kathy Sanders, and her daughter, Dr. Erika Lovett, this unique practice blends artistry, science, and advanced training to help patients look and feel their very best.
More and more people are choosing to enhance their smiles as part of their overall aesthetic journey. In fact, according to the American Academy of Periodontology, cosmetic dental procedures outnumber eyelid surgeries by more than five to one. And it’s not just about teeth. In a recent AACD study, individuals who had smile enhancements were perceived as more attractive, successful, and friendly—underscoring just how much our smiles communicate.
If you’re exploring ways to refresh or restore your smile, here are a few of the most common aesthetic dental concerns we treat—and how our team works together to create natural, lasting results.
Gummy or Uneven Smiles
For patients whose teeth appear short or whose gums are overly prominent, the issue may be what’s known as a gummy smile. Others may have an uneven gumline that makes teeth appear different lengths, creating a crooked smile.
Dr. Sanders specializes in gum contouring—a minimally invasive procedure that reshapes the gumline using high-frequency radiosurgical technology. This approach offers precise results and gentle healing. Depending on the case, Dr. Lovett also performs gum contouring procedures and works closely with patients to ensure the aesthetic improvements align with their overall goals.
Together, they offer a balanced approach to correcting the proportions of the smile while maintaining healthy tissue and a natural appearance.
Gum Recession and Exposed Roots
Gum recession can occur gradually due to over-brushing, genetics, grinding, or gum disease. As gums recede, the roots of the teeth become exposed—leading to longer-looking teeth, increased sensitivity, and greater risk for decay.
For these cases, our practice coordinates care with a trusted local periodontist. Through soft-tissue grafting, healthy tissue is transplanted to cover exposed areas and restore the natural gumline. This protects tooth roots and improves aesthetics, while setting the stage for further cosmetic work if desired.
Missing Teeth and Smile Gaps
Missing teeth don’t just create gaps—they can affect how you chew, speak, and even how your bite functions. At our office, we help patients restore those missing pieces with implant-supported restorations that look and feel like natural teeth.
An oral surgeon will first place the implant, and then either Dr. Sanders or Dr. Lovett will design and place the custom crown. These implant-supported crowns are carefully crafted to match your natural teeth and provide long-term durability with proper care.
Whether you’re replacing one tooth or several, our team will guide you every step of the way with a focus on beauty, comfort, and health.
Gum Indentations After Tooth Loss
When a tooth has been missing for some time, the surrounding jawbone and gum tissue may begin to collapse inward, creating a visible indentation. This can affect both appearance and the ability to place implants.
In these cases, we coordinate with your oral surgeon to determine whether ridge augmentation is needed. This procedure restores the natural curve of the jaw and may involve bone grafting to support future restorations. It’s a critical part of building a strong foundation for implant success—and a beautifully restored smile.
A Unique Blend of Expertise and Warmth
At Tri-Cities Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re proud to offer something special: a mother-daughter team with decades of combined experience, shared values, and a deep commitment to helping patients feel truly confident in their smiles.
Dr. Sanders, as Tennessee’s first and only Accredited Fellow of the AACD, brings a level of training and expertise that’s nationally recognized. Dr. Lovett, a skilled general dentist with a growing cosmetic practice of her own, provides thoughtful, personalized care to patients of all ages.
Together, they combine technical excellence with a joyful, welcoming atmosphere that patients often describe as both professional and deeply personal.
If you’re considering cosmetic dental care in Kingsport, Johnson City, or the greater Tri-Cities area, we’d love to help you explore what’s possible. Whether it’s a small refinement or a complete transformation, our goal is simple: a smile that looks as good as it feels—and one that’s built to last.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit tricitiessmiles.com or give us a call. We can’t wait to meet you.