SMILE!

It’s a matter of health

by Lynn J. Kirk

Isn’t it ironic? In their quest to look their best, boomers will visit the hairdresser monthly for the latest cut and color; shop earnestly for clothing that makes a statement; exercise faithfully to keep healthy and trim — yet sometimes hesitate when it comes to ensuring an attractive, healthy smile.

“People spend 10 times more money on a widescreen TV than they spend on all their dental health per year,” says Majd J. Babik, DDS. “They’re also willing to do anything for their kids, but put off their own needs.”

Dr. Babik, a cosmetic dentist and founder of Crossridge Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Glen Allen, suggests that ensuring one’s optimal dental health is not a luxury, but an investment. “Boomers are living longer, so those in their 50s need to think about their 70s and 80s.” Decisions about dental care today “are all about the life you want to have when you’re older. You need to take care of yourself now to have a better quality of life later.”

Babik and other dentists agree that long-term well-being starts with healthy teeth and gums. Though periodontal disease may not seem life-threatening, the presence of a lingering infection eventually may affect other parts of the body, such as the heart, stomach or immune system. Likewise, a missing tooth, poor alignment or untreated TMJ (temporomandibular joint) can cause recurring problems, including toothache, migraine and jaw or sinus pain.

According to the American Dental Association, another important reason for boomers to schedule regular dental checkups is that the majority of oral cancers occur in people older than 45. Cancerous lesions are more treatable when discovered early, so a thorough dental exam is recommended every six months.

TIME FOR A CHECKUP?

Julie F. Palmore, DDS, whose Richmond practice provides dental care for adults and children, notes that today’s middle-aged patients may have strayed from consistent dental visits. “I call boomers ‘the fluoride generation’ because most had fluoride treatments as children. They haven’t had many cavities, so they may not think they need regular dental care. But no one is immune to periodontal disease, especially since heredity can play a big role, and it usually shows up in the 40s or 50s. TMJ popping and pain also may surface about that time, and the cycles of clenching and grinding can crack teeth and cause cavities.”

So, as part of regular dental care, and definitely prior to any cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Palmore recommends a thorough cleaning, x-rays and a professional exam. The dentist should check for cavities, abscesses, lesions and periodontal disease. An occlusal mouth guard also may be prescribed to prevent additional damage to one’s TMJ. “If there are really serious problems, we can’t always fix them overnight … but usually they can be corrected over time.

“And if you’re planning on spending money [on cosmetic dentistry], first you want to make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy enough for the procedures,” Dr. Palmore advises. “You need a good, strong foundation so the cosmetic treatments will remain attractive for a long time.”

PERFECTING YOUR SMILE

Cosmetic dental procedures have become increasingly popular in recent years. An appealing smile, or lack thereof, is one of the first things people notice. “Your image affects your confidence, career and overall success,” Dr. Babik asserts. “Life is tough enough, so anything to improve your self-esteem is not only very healthful — but also very helpful. It’s an investment in your self!”

He notes that whitening, veneers and implants are three ways to enhance a healthy smile — and perhaps your life.

TYPES OF PROCEDURES

WHITENING is the cosmetic lightening of tooth color. Patient demand for whitening procedures has increased 56 percent over the past year alone, says Dr. Babik.

Office procedure: Involves the dentist’s application of a bleaching product (usually a whitening gel containing a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide) during an extended office visit. Advantages: same-day, long-lasting results without use of messy trays. Negatives: increased cost (compared to home procedure) and requirement of a one-hour office visit.

Home procedure: Involves wearing a custom-fitted, gel-filled tray several hours daily for one to two weeks. Advantages: convenience; greater control of whitening intensity; and, usually, less sensitivity. Negatives: extended treatment time and potential need for touch-ups within six months.

VENEER is a thin, custom-made molding that covers the front of an unsightly tooth for correction of crookedness, shortness or shape; uneven spacing; or extreme discoloration. A veneer also may be used for revitalization of old crowns and bridgework.

Traditional veneer: Involves surface reduction and reshaping of tooth structure, followed by adhesive application of the veneer. Advantages: life-like appearance; stain resistance; and makeover of patient’s smile. Negatives: need for anesthetics; non-reversible removal of tooth structure for the bonding process; and potential for long-term sensitivity.

Porcelain veneer: Involves more advanced porcelain shields. Advantages: minimal to no tooth preparation; painless procedure since no anesthetic shots or drilling; and permanency due to direct bonding onto the enamel. Negative: additional cost (relative to traditional veneers).

IMPLANT is a very reliable and clinically proven device surgically inserted in the jaw to replace a missing tooth or to support a loose or ill-fitting denture. Advantages: Immediate enhancement of smile; improvement in mouth function, including bite and, possibly, speech; prevention of tooth shifting; and an excellent alternative to a bridge. Negatives: Requirement for dental surgery; length of time for three-step process; and overall expense.

WHAT’S THE CO$T?

The price tag for each dental procedure is dependent on the product and practitioner used, as well as the extensiveness of treatment and the patient’s overall dental health. As a guideline only, the following estimates were quoted by several Richmond dentists:

Though cosmetic procedures are not generally covered by dental insurance, partial benefits may apply in the case of broken teeth or pre-existing fillings, bonding or crowns. It’s always best to verify coverage directly with your insurance company.

A HABIT WORTH KEEPING

One final note from Dr. Palmore: dental visits aren’t over when the cosmetic procedures are finished. Continued dental care is critical over the long term. “It’s all about education and habits,” she states. Boomers “need to see their dentist on a regular basis, brush, floss and avoid tobacco products.

“Your beautiful smile can be a wonderful reflection of your good health.”

ADDITIONAL INFO

An informed patient is better equipped to make the right decisions. For more information on dental health and cosmetic dentistry, talk with your dental professional and/or visit these websites:

TIPS

Lynn Kirk took the plunge in 2002 as a freelance writer and marketing consultant. In addition to writing for magazines and newspapers, she works with corporations, PR/ad agencies and non-profit organizations.