For every four people you encounter, one avoids smiling because he’s unhappy with his teeth. In fact, up to 30% of US adults express feeling self-conscious about the appearance of their smile. One of the primary concerns is tooth color, because dental stains and discoloration make a person appear older and less healthy than someone with a bright, white smile. If you’ve ever wondered whether cosmetic dentistry could improve your life, this post is for you. Today, we’ll explore why cosmetic dentistry has an influence on professional, social, and romantic opportunities–and how to improve both your smile and your self confidence.
To talk about your smile with a professional who can help, call Signature Smile Arts in Homewood, IL, today at (708) 799-5353 and reserve a personal consultation. Our dentists take time to really listen, hear, and respond to patients, with practical advice based on education and experience. Armed with information, you’ll be empowered to make wise choices about the future of your smile.
What Do Surveys Say About the Importance of a Smile?
You know what YOU think, but what about everyone else? Are you alone in your concerns? Let’s review four statistics that will help you understand that you are in good company.
- 99.7% of adults think a smile is an important social asset
- 96% think that an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to others
- 74% believe that an unattractive smile will hurt career success
- 48% say that a person’s mile is her most memorable feature after a first interaction
In short, people know the importance of a smile. It’s part of your attire that you wear daily, rain or shine, 24/7. Your smile conveys emotions, shares joy, and is an interwoven part of your appearance and personality.
Confidence, Self-Esteem, and the Psychological Impact of Cosmetic Dentistry
About 77% of us feel more confident when our teeth are in good shape. Also, patients who’ve undergone cosmetic dental procedures often report a boost in confidence that prompts more social engagement. If you are the one in four persons who hide your smile (or neglect to share it freely) due to its lack of appeal, the cosmetic dentists at Signature Smile Arts are trained and experienced in helping patients plan and accomplish smile makeovers. With a smile you’re proud to share, you’ll feel more confident so that you want to engage more professionally, socially, even romantically.
Not Just A White Smile, but A Great First Impression
Research shows that upon a first meeting, people tend to look at a person’s eyes and smile. Why? These attributes convey emotion–they speak without words. An attractive smile makes a person seem more friendly, approachable, and self-assured. Social psychology research tells us that a good looking smile also conveys competence and intelligence. In today’s world of video media and social networks, appearance is more elevated than ever. That first impression can hold so much potential!
More than Esthetics: Functional Cosmetic Dentistry
We usually think about cosmetic dentistry as a way to make a smile seem more unified, harmonic, and bright. Cosmetic dentistry is also used to improve oral function, though. For instance, chipped, worn, and uneven teeth can impair proper bite function–which in turn causes more damage. Tooth-colored crowns and fillings, along with metal-free prosthetics, improve both appearance and function.
Many patients claim to improve their oral homecare routines after cosmetic treatments. Straight teeth are easier to floss and brush. Patients in this group tend to brush more precisely and effectively, floss more frequently, and prioritize dental appointments. Plus, they love to smile!
Longevity, Expectations, and Personal Goals
With good oral health and a consistent, thorough home dental routine, cosmetic dental restorations can endure for many years. Investing in your appearance may also fuel or indicate a lifestage milestone, like a career pivot, renewing youth, or improving social confidence. Your look is how people identify you; it’s important, not an indulgence.
To schedule your cosmetic dentistry consultation and learn how the Signature Smile Arts team can help achieve your smile goals, call us now in Homewood, IL, at (708) 799-5353. We look forward to seeing your smile!
