It should come to no one’s surprise that when people judge what is and what isn’t attractive about people’s appearances; the face is the most important factor. What is interesting is that with the face, it is the smile, the mouth, the teeth, the lips that, on average are the most important determinant of facial beauty. More so on average than the eyes or nose. With these facts in mind, more and more people are looking toward cosmetic dental procedures as a way to boost their appearance. It goes without saying that knowing you have a great smile boosts self-confidence and self-esteem. You project yourself differently and are perceived differently.
There has been somewhat of an evolution of what people consider a great smile. People are more aware of and demand whiter, straighter, healthier looking teeth now than what was considered acceptable a generation ago. The dental profession has responded to this challenge with many treatments and products to give our patients the beautiful smiles they desire. Many dentists are now looking at their patients’ teeth with a mindset for beauty as well as for function.
Teeth whitening has become immensely popular. It comes in many forms, ranging from something as simple as toothpastes that contain whitening ingredients all the way up to procedures done in the dental office by the dentist.
Factors such as time, cost, and patient expectations determine which is right for you. Orthodontics are not just for kids anymore. More and more adults are undergoing orthodontic care both to improve their appearance as well as to position their teeth in a healthier, more functional and cleansable position. Products such as clear braces and Invisalign have made this possibility much more acceptable to adult patients.
Dental materials have improved immensely in the past decade. Stronger, more reliable composite materials, or “white fillings” have all but replaced the traditional silver fillings. The porcelain crowns and porcelain laminates being done today offer many more esthetic options. Gone are the ugly black lines along the gum line and the pasty, artificial color of yesterday’s porcelains.
So, if your smile is not all you would like it to be, tell your dentist and ask what can be done to give you what you’re looking for.