Top 5 Things to Overcome Smile Anxiety
According to a recent study by Bupa, more than a quarter of people don’t like to smile because of their teeth. 28%of people do not show their smile when taking pictures and another 42% say their smile would be what they would change about themselves
Smile anxiety is a real problem. If you find yourself reluctant to smile in photos, or laugh out loud in public, then chances are you have smile anxiety. Just like other parts of our body, how we feel about our teeth can affect our confidence. Our smiles are one of the first things that people notice in their interactions with us. Therefore, smiling can be difficult for people who aren’t quite happy about their teeth. If you suffer from smile anxiety, here are some of the things you can do to overcome it.
Teeth Whitening
Most of us have smile anxiety because of the color of our teeth. Teeth whitening which is also widely known as teeth bleaching is a quick and easy way to enhance the appearance of your teeth. The procedure removes deep coloured stains and discoloration issues, leaving your teeth bright and pearly white.
It’s true that there are lots of DIY remedies and over the counter kits for teeth whitening. However, they do not have high concentrations of bleach that is strong enough to get your sparkly white teeth quickly and deliver lasting results compared to what a dentist would use. Besides, there isn’t a one size fits all approach for teeth whitening. Teeth get discolored for a wide number of reasons. For each of these reasons, there is a technique and a solution that only a certified dentist can give.
One major advantage of teeth whitening is how painless and fast the procedure is. The dentist starts off by cleaning the teeth and gums to get rid of all kinds of ingrained particles and bacteria. Then the dentist will cover the gums to protect them and apply a whitening solution. Afterwards the dentist uses a UV light to activate the bleach solution. They repeat this process over and over until the desired is just as white as you want it. Some people will require only just a session of teeth whitening, while others may require more than one.
Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontics have emerged in modern times as one of the most popular ways to treat misaligned or crowded teeth. The dentist has to first determine the cause of misalignment, before recommending braces, retainers, jaw splints, or anything suitable. The most popular orthodontist treatment in modern times are invisible braces, better known as invisible aligners or Invisalign. They help to deal with teeth issues in a discreet manner. Treatment time is generally quicker, and because they are clear and removable, you don’t have to worry about smiling in public or food restrictions. However clear aligners require a lot of discipline, as opposed to braces. Braces improve irregular bites and correct jaw positioning. They are worn to apply pressure and realign the teeth for a few months or years, depending on the severity of the condition.
Sometimes a dentist can attach lingual braces to the back of the teeth to hide them from view. If you will need to get braces, you would have to stick properly to regular oral hygiene, and get used to some of the discomfort that happens whenever your dentist tightens them. Braces are not for people with allergies to metal or latex.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a popular and versatile procedure that dentists use to repair decayed or chipped teeth, close gaps, or change the shape of the teeth. It is also quicker and less expensive compared to other dental procedures like veneers or crowns. For those who want a better teeth appearance without altering their normal teeth structure, bonding is the best process to go for.
However bonding is best used as a temporary fix and not as a long term solution. The treatment takes up to 30-60 minutes per tooth. Durable plastic resin which is the same color as the tooth is first applied to the tooth. Then they apply special light to harden and bond the resin. The ultimate result is an improved and natural looking smile. If dental bonding is to last, then patients must learn to avoid habits like chewing fingernails or pens, chewing ice, or hard foods.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are more permanent solutions for those looking to fix chipped, misaligned or irregularly shaped teeth. The veneers used in this process are thin custom made shells made from resin or porcelain that cover up the whole teeth. The veneers bond to the front of the teeth. Sometimes, your dentist may apply a dye to the veneer to match the teeth color. Porcelain is usually a better choice since it looks more natural than resin. However personal preference is usually more prevalent when it comes to this procedure. Unlike dental bonding, veneers take more time. They require three trips to the dentist’s office.
The first is a consultation to determine if you qualify for a veneer and if your teeth can handle them. The second visit involves making the molds for the veneers. Your dentist will trim off some of your enamel and take it to the laboratory so make your custom veneers. The final visit is for the veneer installation. The dentist will use a special light to bond the cement, and then make final touch-ups. Afterwards you have follow up appointments for regular checkups.
Veneers are long lasting. They can last as long as fifteen years, but this doesn’t mean they are a hundred percent indestructible. If they aren’t properly cared for, chipping and discoloration can set in. The process is also permanent. While it is possible to remove old veneers, you will need to get a new one right away because some parts of your enamel has been shaved down during the procedure. Due to its long lasting effects, and the amount of time it takes to be effectively applied, it is only natural that veneers are a lot more expensive than the other treatments.
Enameloplasty
Enameloplasty is the medical name for permanent enamel reshaping and contouring. It is an easy and inexpensive solution for irregular teeth shape, uneven enamel, and small chips within the teeth, and it goes a long way in improving your smile. Before starting out with this procedure, a dentist has to first of all access the thickness of the enamel. If it isn’t thick enough, you might not qualify for the procedure, and you might want to consider alternative solutions like bonding or veneers. The whole procedure is usually done in one appointment. The dentist uses sanding paper to smooth out and recontour the teeth, after your enamel has been stripped.
Conclusion
Like everything else in life, relieving smile anxiety cannot be effectively done without some work and thereafter, some maintenance. Not everyone was born with a beautiful picture perfect smile, but everyone can intentionally work towards achieving one.
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