Okemos, Lansing, East Lansing MI
People in the United States spend big money taking care of their teeth – $162 billion in 2021 on dental care, according to data compiled by the American Dental Association. The general rule of thumb for oral health is the same as overall health; it is better to spend a little on preventive care now than spend a lot later for a more expensive and often serious procedure to fix a problem. Failing to take proper care of your teeth now can lead to a host of issues down the road, including tooth loss. That’s why, today on the blog, we explain why losing a permanent tooth has a cost that goes beyond mere financial expense.
Tooth loss may affect your job status
Research has established a link between high unemployment rates and significant tooth loss, which is defined as an adult missing six or more of their permanent teeth. This is in part because individuals living with significant tooth loss hesitate to go apply for jobs because they are self-conscious about their appearance or the impact that tooth loss has on their speech. Regain your self-esteem and get back on the job hunt by restoring your smile through cosmetic dentistry in Okemos.
Meanwhile, a survey of hiring managers found that applicants who smile more often are on the inside track when it comes to seeking a job. Those who smile more are found to be more likable, as well as more confident. You can show your smile with confidence again by visiting your Lansing dentist to replace your missing teeth
Tooth loss lowers your confidence
As alluded to earlier, losing permanent teeth impacts your self-image. Living with lost permanent teeth also has been linked to a higher risk factor of developing anxiety and depression. Meanwhile, if you smile more frequently, it elevates your mood and boosts your endorphins. A well-trained cosmetic dentist can help you regain your confidence by filling that hole in your smile.
Tooth loss can affect your health
What causes someone to lose their teeth? The contributing culprits include gum disease, smoking and poor nutrition, as well as chronic ailments like diabetes and hypertension. There’s a mutual link between tooth loss and all of these conditions. That means that living with missing permanent teeth also can increase your risk of gum disease, not to mention other potential health issues such as stroke, heart disease, dementia, and even certain forms of cancer.
Restorative dentistry in Okemos, Lansing and East Lansing in Michigan
Stop living with tooth loss and its impact on your self-esteem and potential effects on both your oral and overall health. Tenaglia Smiles can restore your smile and perhaps improve its form as well as its function through some of the treatment options available in restorative dentistry. Dr. Christine Tenaglia and her team of oral health professionals offer both dental bridges and dental implants as methods of tooth replacement. To find out more about our program of restorative dentistry, schedule a consultation today by calling (517) 347-6733 or visiting us online.