Are you pleased with the appearance of your teeth? A recent survey showed that 32% of Americans are concerned about theirs, which may explain why they spend $1.4 billion a year on teeth whitening products.
Dentists, however, know how to best brighten your smile. When having their teeth whitened by a dentist rather than using over-the-counter products, 82.5% of people did notice a difference.
The survey also showed that 74% of adults associate an attractive smile, which includes white teeth, with career success. As a result, they may be part of the 64.4% of Americans that visit their dentist every year. Depending on an individual’s level or oral health, some dentists may recommend quarterly visits.
In addition to checking for cavities and other issues, dentists will also screen for periodontal disease. Nearly half of adults 30 and over have some form of this disease. In addition to being painful, periodontal disease can also lead to the loss of one or more teeth.
It is estimated that 178 Americans are missing a tooth, and 15 million choose to opt for crown and bridge replacements. Others, however, choose dental implants instead. Why dental implants? The main reason is because they have the look, feel, and function of normal teeth.
When teeth are slightly crooked, a dentist may recommend Invisalign braces. As their name indicates, these braces are nearly invisible and look like teeth-whitening trays.
Parents need to be sure that their children develop good oral hygiene habits as well. When children are less than a year old, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists indicates they should visit the dentist as soon as their first tooth appears. After this, it is recommended that they see their pediatric dentist every 6 months. In some cases, children may need more frequent visits to the dentist.
While white teeth may encourage you to smile more often, you also want to have good oral health. To accomplish this, it’s important to find the best dentist possible in your area. Whether you just need a regular check-up and whitening, or are interested in straightening your teeth or replacing missing ones with implants, finding a dentist with whom you feel comfortable also makes sense.
