Few would debate that dental appointments and dental work are less than fun. Checkups and treatments can take time, cause discomfort, and (in the case of orthodontic care) alter your look for extended periods of time. But you don't have to let these experiences get you down, nor should you put off the care you need. Here are three things you can do to add an element of fun to those necessary dental services.
1. Turn Dental Checkups Into a Game
This strategy is especially helpful if you have kids you tend to neglect their dental hygiene. Offer rewards for good checkup results based on some kind of scoring system -- such as zero representing a perfect score, with points taken off for cavities and other signs of dental neglect. Your dentist can help you come up with a contest that encourages regular brushing/flossing and smart food or drink choices. If you offer sufficiently attractive prizes for good scores, you may find that your kids actually look forward to visiting the dentist and seeing what they've won.
2. Add Color to Your Braces
Braces can dramatically improve the smiles of both kids and adults -- but for wearers of traditional metal braces, that long-time improvement comes at the cost of short-term unsightliness. But even if your orthodontic situation can't be remedied by clear plastic trays (sometimes referred to as "invisible braces"), you can still give those wires and brackets a fresh, fun look. Many orthodontic clinics offer fashion braces in a variety of colors, allowing you to own your look and get away from the "metal mouth" aesthetic. They work just as well as metal braces for most conditions, but your orthodontist can advise you as to whether they make the most sense for your specific needs.
3. Make a Fashion Statement With Your Crowns
When you think of dental crowns, you probably envision either tooth-colored porcelain crowns or crowns made of noble (metals such as gold or silver). These and other materials can lend strength and protection to weakened or damaged teeth, and they're usually a requirement if you've had a procedure such as a root canal. But if you have to put up with the tedium of having your teeth prepared, impressions made, and crown fittings and adjustments, why not take the opportunity to make a fashion statement at the same time? Some cosmetic dentists will add a colorful tattoo that expresses your personality and lifestyle. Unlike cosmetic enhancements made directly to tooth enamel, these tattoos pose no danger to your teeth -- and they can be removed if you ever get tired of them.
Are you ready to let dentistry play a brighter, more entertaining role in your life? Ask your dentist or orthodontist about these and other strategies to bring a little extra "zip" to your dental routine!
Share30 April 2019
As a busy professional, my public appearance is very important to me. Networking with potential clients and business contacts is as much about the image you present as it is about what you do and what you know. I take care to look my best every day by taking special care with my hair, makeup, and clothes. But for a long time, I was embarrassed about my smile, and restricted myself to tight, closed mouth smiles to hide my yellowed, crooked teeth. Then I discovered what cosmetic dentistry could do for me. With the help of a great cosmetic dentist, I decided to have tooth whitening treatments and use corrective tooth straightening equipment. Now I have no problem flashing a big, white smile everywhere I go. You can do the same thing! Find out how cosmetic dentistry can maximize your smile power and improve your life.