According to a recent study 83% of people believe their teeth are more important to their appearance than hair and eyes. Maybe that explains the boom in the cosmetic dentist industry.
Cosmetic dentistry is considered new territory in the dentist world, and I was quite nervous about having any aesthetic work done. I was bullied as a child about my unruly teeth. Names like 'gappy' and later 'train tracks' still come back to haunt me. But after years of hiding my mouth behind my hand I thought it was time to seek help.
I took time to research around the topic as I didn't know which clinics were reputable and which weren't. I even found out some random dentistry facets, like more people use red tooth brushes than blue ones, and each tongue has a unique print just like our fingers do.
Dentists aren't seen in the same light as doctors, but that is really what they are, doctors of the mouth, and I certainly didn't want to let just anyone tamper with my teeth.
Cosmetic dentist work seems excessive to some as you are paying for your vanity. Many clinics offer treatments on a pay monthly budget which helps those who cannot afford the treatment straight away. I spent my savings on the treatment I wanted, money that was seen by my boyfriend as a wasted. He said we could put it towards a new car or a holiday. Some people just don't see what a new smile can bring.
The most popular procedures carried out are tooth whitening, enamel shaping, bonding and tooth veneers. I needed veneers and paid around £750 for porcelain veneers and a cosmetic consultation. The company I used had a great reputation and had been on reality TV so I knew I was going to be in safe hands.
Celebrity smiles are the cream of the dentistry crop with Hollywood actors Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts getting the Oscar for a winning set. When it comes to cosmetic dentistry the US is definitely at the forefront of teeth technology. A lot of people go to America to learn how to be a cosmetic dentist and gain accreditation for practicing.
The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), founded in December 1984, is the world's largest organization for cosmetic dental professionals. They boast over 7600 practitioners, educators, researchers and laboratory technicians from 60 countries. It is a recognisable stamp of approval and I would suggest looking out for it when trying to find a cosmetic dentist clinic.
I am so happy with the results of my new teeth. I can't stop running my teeth over them and laughing, and the clinic taught me all I needed to know about how to maintain it. My boyfriend's even come round!