When people think of visiting a cosmetic dentist, they often imagine comprehensive treatments that involve complex surgery and a heavy price tag—the kind of procedures reserved for significant dental issues. But in reality, there several simple treatments that benefit people with minor cosmetic issues—such as those that have discolored, crooked, or gapped teeth. And while these procedures may correct small problems, they can deliver big results that improve your overall quality of life. Here are just a few ways that can happen.

How Can Minor Cosmetic Dentistry Transform Your Life?

Boost Confidence

Whether you’re going on a first date, taking a portrait, or interviewing for a job, your smile will make a big impact on how others perceive you. In fact, a study from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry suggests that nearly half of adults find another person’s smile to be their most memorable feature.

Given this behavior, it can be hard to make a good first impression if your teeth have a small cosmetic issue—or if you hide your smile altogether. When a cosmetic dentist fixes minor issues with veneers, straightening, or teeth whitening, you’ll have the ability to show off your smile and stay confident in your appeal to others.

Improve Health

If cosmetic issues keep you from smiling, you may be doing your mind and your body a disservice. Research shows that the mere act of smiling can help trigger the release of dopamine and other chemicals that help relieve stress and boost your mood—responses that can benefit your mental health. Additional studies suggest that smiling more may also benefit cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and reducing heart rate in stressful situations

Minimize Signs of Aging

In some cases, it may not always be visible to others if you’ve lost a tooth—particularly if it was a back molar. But over time, not having a tooth can cause bone loss in the jaw. As jaw bone deteriorates, people can develop a sunken-in look that makes them appear to be much older than they actually are. If you want to prevent this kind of damage, a cosmetic dentist can provide a permanent dental implant to replace the entire missing tooth and preserve the jaw.

When you’re stressed about the way your smile looks, Susan Kleier, DMD, has the skills and resources to improve your oral health and appearance. As an experienced cosmetic dentist in Lexington, KY, Dr. Kleier will evaluate the look and integrity of your teeth to measure the extent of any problems. No matter how big or small the problem, this dentist will introduce you to a variety of viable solutions that can restore your smile—including veneers, dental implants, and teeth whitening. Visit the clinic online to learn more about these services or call (859) 225-1188 to schedule a convenient consultation.