Whether you’re interviewing for a job or boldly striking out into the world of dating, there’s a good chance that confidence and self-esteem are two commodities that you’ll want a steady supply of. But when it comes to actually charging forward and succeeding, it’s’ not your clothes, your car, your bank account, or even your upbringing that give you the confidence you need. Studies say, it might be as simple as your teeth.

A study by King’s College in London discovered that visible tooth decay actively changed the way the individual was regarded by his or her peers. In the study, imperfections like visibly decayed teeth or crowded teeth influenced volunteers to deem study participants as less clever, less intelligent, and less popular. On the other hand, volunteers who had their teeth whitened were regarded as more successful and more attractive.

If you’re not feeling incredibly confident about your teeth, there are methods to turn to.

In our dental office in Garden Grove, CA cosmetic dentistry is a popular topic of conversation. Of course, this is because the studies are true! While many of of us have dental imperfections that would otherwise go unnoticed by the general public, even the slightest imperfection can sometimes become hard to ignore.

In-Office Whitening

Over the course of time, it’s not uncommon for your teeth to become stained. Whether from medications, foods like coffee and tea, or smoking it can inevitably happen to almost anyone. If your teeth have become stained over time, your dentist may recommend one of two possible solutions, in-office whitening or a take-home whitening system. The recommendation for either of these (or a combination of the two) will likely be made based on the severity of your stains. However, don’t forget — whitening isn’t permanent and your teeth can become stained again. After whitening, it is still vitally important to continue with oral care including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antiseptic.

Veneers

Veneers are custom shells that are usually made of porcelain. They are used to cover the front and sides of your teeth to mask any imperfections, while also altering the color and shape of your tooth. While less expensive than crowns, veneers are a popular choice for improving teeth that are chipped, stained, or even slightly crooked or improperly shaped. Because veneers are custom made for your teeth, it often takes two visits to have them installed. The first for when your tooth is molded, and the second for installing the actual veneer.

Bonding

Bonding is most frequently used to improve the appearance of teeth with too much space, or for teeth that are broken, stained, or cracked. Bonding can also be used to fill small cavities or to protect the root of a tooth if it’s become exposed.While bonding can last for several years, it does not last as long as veneers or other forms of dental restoration and is more likely to chip or wear down over time. Even still, bonding can still be an incredibly effective and inexpensive solution for solving a variety of problems that can impact your smile.

How could your smile give you more confidence? If you have questions about cosmetic dentistry and live in Orange County, give the friendly dental team at Primary Dental Care of Garden Grove a call.