University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, one in three middle-aged Americans is ashamed of their smile, and an even higher percentage admits that dental issues have caused them pain, made eating difficult, or kept them from working in the last two years. Of course, this is unsurprising in light of another statistic from the poll: 40% of those same adults don’t see their dentist for regular dental cleanings to prevent this kind of dental problem.
What Does An Embarrassing Smile Look Like?
There are a few different reasons someone might be embarrassed over their smile. The obvious and common one is that people are embarrassed if their smile isn’t attractive. We’re surrounded by media featuring celebrities with perfectly straight, gleamingly white smiles, but it’s very rare for someone’s smile to look like that without spending some hours in the dentist’s chair. Luckily, cosmetic dentistry is no longer only the realm of Hollywood elites. If you want a whiter smile, you can have one in an hour with Zoom! teeth whitening. If you’re concerned about a crooked set of chompers, clear braces are a subtle and effective option, or tooth-colored braces like Six Month Smiles can show speedy results. Even missing teeth are no obstacle when the gap can be filled with a reliable, attractive dental implant. There’s no need to let an unattractive set of teeth keep you from showing off your smile! And it’s never too late to get the smile of your dreams, particularly if it will keep you from feeling embarrassment or shame over your smile. Of course, an unhealthy smile can also be a reason to be embarrassed, too. Cavities can lead to unattractive metal fillings, and gum disease can cause bright red, swollen gums that can put you at risk of tooth loss, along with the unpleasant side effect of chronically bad breath. But worst of all is the impact of poor oral health not on your appearance, but on your overall health. Gum disease has even been linked to major health conditions from heart disease to arthritis.
What Can Be Done?
If you find that your regular oral hygiene routines aren’t keeping your teeth healthy, it’s important that you see your dentist for a checkup and cleaning. They can advise you on how to practice better at-home oral hygiene, as well as check for any decay or disease in your mouth that needs treatment. And if it’s a more attractive smile you’re after, your dentist can walk you through your cosmetic dentistry options. No matter what’s embarrassing you about your smile, an experienced cosmetic dentist can provide a solution suited to your needs. If you live in Blue Bell, PA and are looking for a dentist, call (610) 272-0828 or contact us online to make an appointment.
