Dental health plays a huge part in our overall physical wellness — afterall, the mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory systems, so it makes sense that if there are systemic oral issues it can affect your body as a whole. But your dental health and appearance also plays a big part in your self value.
In a study conducted in 2017 around the impact of dental disorders and self esteem, it was found that dental disorders such as tooth loss and untreated decay causes a significant impact on the way the subject group felt they were perceived and accepted. Ultimately, the study revealed a huge connection between oral health, aesthetics and self worth.
In another study conducted by Wakefield Research on behalf of the American Association of Orthodontists, one-third of Americans are in some way dissatisfied with the appearance of their teeth. Additionally, researchers found that individuals with poor perception of their oral attractiveness had similarly negative beliefs around their romantic and professional success.
However, beyond appearances themselves, poor dental health can lead to other health issues such as gum disease, infection, or worse. In fact, poor oral wellness has been linked to stroke and other serious complications such as:
Poor oral health can also lead to cancer, diabetes, and bone loss, which is why it’s critical to catch gum disease and other dental care issues as quickly as possible.
Cosmetic dentistry is a unique combination of science and aesthetics. Simply put, it’s the intersection of artistry and medical-based precision. Dentists in the field of cosmetics have a foundation in science but also understand the cultural and social importance tied to dental appearance. By blending a deep understanding of oral biology with a passion for design, cosmetic dentistry is effectively positioned to customize the ideal smile for each patient.
Anxiety about visiting the dentist in common. Many patients have neglected their dental care simply because of dentist-related phobias, which is understandable — the mouth is a sensitive part of the body! The good news is, dental professionals are all-too familiar with this sentiment and have unique techniques to help patients with:
Advanced technology also offers the option to complete many traditionally time-consuming procedures in just one visit. The method of CEREC, or Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic, uses specialized equipment and computer aid to fabricate and repair damage in a short period of time. This option provides an efficient and precise level of care which eliminates the need for multiple visits, messy prep work and waiting time. CEREC can be used for multiple types of repair including crowns, bridges and veneers.
◊ Functionality
If you have worn or cracked teeth, large fillings, broken cusps, or have previously had dental implants or a root canal, a cosmetic dentist may suggest a dental crown, or a cap which covers a damaged tooth. When restoring multiple teeth, dental bridges may be used. For missing teeth, dental implants offer a durable, natural-looking solution
◊ Color
Cosmetic dentistry addresses stained or discolored teeth by providing professional whitening services that last for much longer than at-home options.
◊ Alignment
In addition to restorative procedures, cosmetic dentistry also focuses on alignment issues. In some cases, poorly aligned teeth can cause additional wear on the teeth and/or gums. It may add strain to the jaw muscles which in extreme cases can cause teeth to crack and can also cause temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ, as well as chronic headaches. Traditional braces or Invisalign®can help alleviate these issues while also providing a straighter, more attractive smile. Invisalign®, in particular, allows for patients to straighten their teeth but the option to remove the device to eat helps create an overall more comfortable experience.
Addressing oral care is not just important to your self esteem, it’s a critical part of your overall health and wellbeing