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How To Get a CEO Smile
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Business New Haven
11/12/2001
By:
Sheila A. LaSella
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We eat with it, talk with it, kiss with it, sing with it. Our mouth: the most active gateway to the body and perhaps our prolific means of expression. How do you feel about yours? Do you say “cheese” with gusto, or shy away from a big toothy grin?
There are only three things to do with a perceived less-than-ideal body part: Accept it, dislike it or change it. If you can accept your imperfections in this age of unattainable beauty standards, you are truly evolved. If you're like most of us, you travel through life disgruntled with some aspect of your appearance while imagining the ideal body that you're certain will bring you lasting happiness.
Now with the help of cosmetic dentistry, or the art and science of improving your smile, you can alter the appearance of your teeth and attain the smile of your dreams.
Many executives decide to have cosmetic dentistry to boost their self-confidence. They are going on an interview or have received a promotion and don't want to be inhibited by stained, chipped or missing teeth. Often they have disliked their teeth for years and a significant life event may prompt them to make a change in their smile.
For those people unhappy with their less-than pearly whites, cosmetic or esthetic dentistry may be your ticket to the winning smile. Dentistry's fastest-growing area can help you whiten the yellow, straighten the crooked and patch the chipped with an array of procedures depending on your needs.
While vanity may be a primary motivating factor in seeking cosmetic dentistry, these procedures also help those who have been in car accidents or suffered from a sports injury.
The first priority is to find a qualified dentist with a good track record for creating that Hollywood smile. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) provides certification for dentists who qualify to perform esthetic work (although not all dentists who perform cosmetic work seek AACD accreditation). The AACD can also help you find a dentist in your area (visit www.aacd.com). The AACD is not the same as the American Dental Association, so be certain to check this fact with your potential sculptor.
During the initial consultation appointment be prepared to discuss how you feel about your mouth and what changes you would like to make. Entering the dentist's office with a clear idea of your desired outcome will empower you to make the right decision. Communication is important, if you don't initially feel comfortable with the dentist or he or she is not listening to you, follow your instinct and shop elsewhere.
A few other areas to examine: before-and-after photographs of cosmetic procedures - examine closely the treatment you will be receiving, including new technologies and techniques. Is your dentist up to date and does she/he attend continuing education seminars? Check out the atmosphere and cleanliness of the office as well as equipment: Is it modern and clean? Ask about payment options: Are they flexible and willing to work with you?
Now you are ready to think about which procedure is best for you. Are you in the market for simply a whiter smile, or do you desire a more extensive reworking of your mouth?
One of the most common and popular procedures is whitening or bleaching. This is a process of brightening or whitening stained, discolored or dull teeth in the office or at home, with the dentist's supervision. Gum irritation and sensitivity are the most common side effects of whitening. Be aware that bleaching has only been around for about 20 years, so there are few long-term studies to show side effects of damage.
Whitening can be done in one to three visits. The first visit may last one hour to an entire morning. The cost is between $125 and $625.
If a tooth is chipped or slightly decayed bonding may be your choice. Bonding is the addition of a tooth colored resin to change the shape or color of the tooth, widen the tooth or close spaces. The cost of bonding ranges from $75 to $400 per tooth.
In some circumstances, the bonding technique will not be a sufficient remedy. If you need a stronger material to correct a problem your dentist will recommend veneers. These are thin, specially-made porcelain or resin laminates that adhere to the surface of the original tooth and can be used to correct gaps, or crooked, chipped, discolored and worn teeth. Veneers cost $800 to $1,200 per tooth.
As far as the level of pain and discomfort you will have to endure, this will vary with the individual. Whitening is relatively painless, while the other procedures do involve receiving Novocain injections. If you are someone who is generally sensitive to dental work or chemicals, be sure to investigate this area fully with your dentist before proceeding.
The physical pain may be minor compared to the pain your pocketbook will receive. It is no secret that dental work in general is expensive and often partially covered or not covered at all by health insurance.
If you were to receive a standard whitening process and additional veneer work on a couple of teeth you could be looking at approximately a $4,000 to $5,000 bill. If the work is deemed “medically necessary,” your insurance company may cover it, but in about half of all cases, cosmetic dentistry is not covered.
Finally, there is the maintenance of your oral cavity after you attain your picture-perfect teeth. Your pretty smile may open new doors, but it will not enable you to forego regular care and check-ups. You will still need to visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings in addition to the follow-up after your cosmetic dentistry.
Additionally, a mouthguard may be recommended to protect and enhance the longevity of the work. Yes, the time and money invested in your mouth may seem steep, but at what price beauty?
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