There is no replacement for a healthy beautiful smile. Unfortunately, 18% of people say that they usual conceal their teeth in photos; since 96% of adults believe that an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to the opposite sex, a lackluster smile can result in a deficit of confidence. Many people need to realize that a beautiful smile is the result of proper dental hygiene formed by good habits. Here are some facts on oral hygiene and how to get a more beautiful, healthier smile..
Oral Hygiene in the United States
Regular brushing and flossing are habits that are most easily instilled upon young children, unfortunately adulthood responsibilities and freedoms mean that a good percentage of the population has forgotten how to properly take care of their teeth. Only 49% of men in the United States brush their teeth twice per day; ladies aren’t much better, as only 56.8% of women brush their teeth twice per day. Brushing alone is ineffective at removing particulates caught in-between teeth, yet only 22% of people in the U.S. claim to floss daily. Regular brushing and flossing is a good step towards establishing the healthy habits needed to keep a healthy, beautiful smile.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Teeth whitening products promise to turn back the clock on teeth staining to restore a beautiful, white luster to teeth. Each year, Americans are estimated to spend an average of around $1.4 billion on teeth whitening products. Due to the progressive nature of these products, many Americans are unsatisfied by the results or are too impatient to properly continue the course of treatment. To this end, many adults have turned to cosmetic dentistry. Using professional treatment methods, dentists are able to whiten teeth and keep them whiter for longer. Up to 82.5% of those who had their teeth whitened by a dentist saw a noticeable difference. An alternative option for those unhappy with the appearance of their front teeth are dental veneers. Veneers are ultra-thin shells of porcelain that bond to the teeth and are effective at improving the appearance of those with chipped, worn down, or misaligned teeth.
General Dentistry
Although most people are concerned with a more beautiful smile, in truth a healthier smile is a more beautiful smile. Adults are recommended to schedule an appointment with their general dentist at least once every six months for a cleaning and check-up. Serious gum diseases like gingivitis can result from neglected or improper hygiene; not only is gingivitis painful, it also can result in tooth decay and premature tooth loss. The hard reality is that those wishing to have beautiful smiles need to put the effort into establishing healthy habits, including regular visits to the dentists’ office. With new procedures and hygiene products being introduced to the dental field every year, dentists are able to offer a wider variety of treatment options to patients including dental implants, bridges, and laser cavity filling with no pain. The dentist may have once been an intimidating place, but modern technology is helping to keep the dentist’s office full of nothing but smiles.
