Some people still view aesthetic dentistry as merely a vanity science. However, research shows that oral health can affect the health of the rest of the body in a number of ways. When your patients begin to express concern that cosmetic care is unnecessary or superfluous, point them to these important ways that cosmetic dentists contribute to a person’s overall health.
Encouraging Cleanliness and Oral Health
Cosmetic dentistry embraces the beauty of a healthy, white smile, but its impact goes far beyond teeth whitening or porcelain veneers. When teeth are the right shape and size, and when they are in the right positions, they are easier to keep clean. That means fewer cavities, fewer infections and fewer teeth having to be pulled due to decay.
Helping with Bite Problems
Someone with a crossbite, underbite, overbite, or other bite issue may experience serious pain and discomfort for years. They may have trouble chewing, taking bites of food, speaking clearly, or smiling comfortably. Only with help from a cosmetic dentist can those issues be resolved using Invisalign, braces, or other solutions.
Teaching about Lifestyle Factors that Affect Oral Health
When people care about the way their teeth look, they are opening the door for their dentist to educate them about proper oral care. For example, if a patient doesn’t want additional stains on their teeth, he is more likely to listen to his dentist’s suggestion that he cut back on black coffee, red wine, or smoking.
Performing Reconstructive Work after Accidents
Cosmetic dentistry serves another very important purpose. By understand the way the teeth and jaws work and how they should look, dentists gain a better understanding of how to do reconstructive work. Accidents at home or in the car can leave people scarred for life; but with the help of a cosmetic dentist, their teeth can be repaired, restored, or replaced as needed to give them back their smile. Soldiers or police officers wounded in conflict, construction workers hurt on the job, or children whose permanent teeth have been damaged can all benefit from the skillset of a cosmetic dentist.
Consulting about Speech Disorders, TMJ Cases, and Teeth Grinding
Cosmetic dentists are often called upon to consult for sleep problems, speech disorders or cases of TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorders) in which the jaw joint is inflamed. They can help people who have cracked or broken teeth due to teeth grinding at night. They can correct underlying jaw and tooth problems that have affected a person’s facial structure.
Preventing Small Problems from Becoming Severe
In fact, patients who visit a cosmetic dentist in the early days of a problem can actually save themselves a lot of money, time, and pain by seeking treatment early. Fixing a cosmetic issue quickly can keep it from becoming a serious health problem later on.
Clearing the Path for Success
One health issue, such as a problematic bite that affects speech or eating, can impact a person’s entire life. Crooked teeth or painful jaw problems can steal a person’s confidence, distract from important tasks at work, and cause ongoing emotional distress that takes a toll on the whole body. ADDA provides aesthetic dentistry training for dentists who are looking to address the modern-day dental concerns of patients who are looking to achieve both beautiful smiles and amazing dental health. With a healthy, pearly-white, attractive smile, people gain the confidence they need to be bold and successful in their personal and professional lives.
