Approximately 74% of adults think an unattractive smile can hurt them professionally, according to an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry survey. With high numbers of adults unhappy with the current condition of their smile, this is a common problem. While there are many causes of an unattractive looking smile, these tips could help even the worst of smiles to improve.
Opt for cosmetic alignment procedures
If your smile is affected by poorly aligned teeth, an alignment procedure like braces could be beneficial and produce successful results. While many adults tend to avoid braces, there are invisible braces options available today. Visit with your general dentistry professional and discuss your cosmetic options. A growing number of adults are opting for braces to correct poorly aligned teeth that they had never corrected as a child.
Schedule a whitening procedure
There are many foods and drinks that can permanently stain the teeth. Over time, the teeth become discolored and lose their whitening look. Fortunately, there are many dental procedures available to get the teeth back to their original white color. Nearly half of the population is unhappy with their teeth (48%) with discolored teeth (64%) being the main reason for being unhappy. It is best to avoid over the counter whitening procedures, as they tend to be temporary solutions. Your dentist’s office likely offers a more permanent dental service that is likely to give you better results.
Keep up with routine dental cleanings
Skipping routine dental checkups and cleanings can reduce the attractiveness of your teeth. If you have unfilled cavities, for example, your teeth will not appear as clean. Additionally, the plaque buildup in between your teeth can reduce the shininess and smoothness of your teeth. One of the most important tasks of your routine dental checkups is to monitor any dental problems. Keeping appointments with your family dentists office will ensure that there are no underlying problems leading to a poor smile.
Request a referral for a cosmetic dentist professional
If you are regular with your dental checkups and cleanings and yet, you are still unhappy with the look of your teeth, you can request a referral to a cosmetic dentist. Cosmetic dentists are different from general dentistry. General dentistry professionals are more focused on the cleaning and care of your teeth. While they might offer services like teeth whitening and braces, they generally do not offer any other types of cosmetic services. Additionally, the cosmetic services that they do offer are done with the intention of improving the functionality of the teeth.
A cosmetic dentist, on the other hand, will offer services that solely improve the look of your smile. These procedures might not be covered by your insurance provider, but you can usually opt for a payment plan. You also do not have to continue seeing your cosmetic dentist after the procedure is completed. Instead, you will continue your routine checkups with your primary dentist.
Approximately 32% of people say they are concerned with the look of their teeth. An unattractive smile affects social relationships, career possibilities, and overall self confidence levels. There are many options to improve the look of your smile, both at your primary dental office, as well as the local cosmetic dentistry office.