Smiles are good for the soul. When you smile, your brain releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood elevators. As the Mayo Clinic notes, that kind of positive response can help reduce stress and anxiety and even ease your heart rate and blood pressure. Smiling and laughter may also give your immune system a boost — UCLA Health points out that laughing increases immune cells and antibodies, helping your body fight off germs and infections. Immune boosting is especially important this time of year!
Most People Notice Your Smile First
But let’s talk about the social benefits of smiling. According to a survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 48% of adults believe a smile is the most memorable feature after meeting someone for the first time. Smiling can improve your social life by making you appear more approachable and friendly to others. RBF *resting brat face* is not something to be proud of. But if you are not smiling because you are unhappy with how it looks, you are not alone.
According to an American Association of Orthodontists survey, one-third of American adults are unhappy with their smile. When you are self-conscious about your smile, you hide it by not smiling, smiling without showing your teeth, or covering your mouth when you smile. We’ve already shared the health benefits of smiling. But what happens to all those family photos where you smiled fake or hid your smile? Those are precious moments memorialized in film that you don’t get back. Don’t let your photos be something you cringe over. Your smile can even impact your ability to land a job or get a promotion. And it would be remiss not to mention how a great smile can improve your love life.
What Cosmetic Dentistry Can Fix
Enter cosmetic dentistry. Technology is a great thing (when it works), and advances in dentistry have made getting a beautiful smile something anyone can achieve (and you don’t have to rob a bank to afford it). Not only can cosmetic dentistry improve the appearance of your teeth, but it can also boost your confidence and enhance your overall well-being.
The best thing about cosmetic dentistry is that it is customized according to the individual’s unique needs. By identifying what bothers you about your smile, you can address the problem correctly. For instance, whitening can make a significant difference and enhance your self-confidence if your teeth are yellowed. Other treatments like veneers, bonding, and crowns can help correct imperfections in your teeth, such as chips, cracks, or gaps. And if your teeth are crooked, clear aligners can straighten them discreetly, without traditional metal braces.
It’s Not Just About Looks — It’s About Health
Besides improving the appearance of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry can also improve your oral health. When your teeth are correctly aligned and free of cracks or chips, cleaning them and avoiding decay or other dental problems becomes easier. In fact, the Cleveland Clinic notes that untreated misalignment can raise the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Treatments like dental implants or dental bridges can help restore missing teeth, improving your ability to chew and speak properly.
The Biggest Benefit Is Confidence
However, the most significant benefit of cosmetic dentistry is the boost in confidence it can provide. When you feel proud of your smile, you’re more likely to smile and laugh freely, which can positively impact your mental health and social interactions. Studies have shown that people who smile more often are perceived as more attractive, trustworthy, and confident than those who don’t.
People with white teeth are perceived as healthier than those with discolored teeth. It works a bit like the eyes: clear, white eyes read as a familiar visual cue of good health. The white part of the eye, called the sclera, can reflect what is happening elsewhere in the body — a yellowish tint, for example, can be a sign of liver trouble (jaundice), and bloodshot or reddened eyes can point to fatigue or allergies. Bright, white eyes generally read as a sign of good health.
Choosing the Right Dentist for Your Smile
If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry, the first step is to consult a dentist who can help you determine which treatment is right for you. Honesty and integrity are essential, so choose a dentist who will shoot straight from the hip and provide various options with various price points. (I mean, you aren’t going to be smiling if you’re broke).
“When I look over the last 25 years, one of the more rewarding things I’ve done for patients is to help create a smile that fits them,” said Dr. Andy. “Seeing their reaction upon looking in the mirror is incredibly heartwarming and joyous. Being exposed to tears of joy isn’t a bad way to spend your day at the office.”
With advances in dental technology and techniques, cosmetic dentistry in Bend, Oregon, is more accessible and affordable than ever. So why not take the first step towards a brighter, more confident smile today? Learn more about the smile design services we offer on our website. You can also schedule a consult with Dr. Andy to discuss options for enhancing your smile. And don’t forget to check out our smile gallery for a few transformations to whet your whistle.