The Power of a Beautiful Smile

So often during an initial consultation I am asked about the “need” for orthodontic treatment. My response is always the same, “Orthodontic treatment is not a necessity, no one had died from not having braces, but there are often many strong benefits of treatment including function and esthetics.” One of the primary benefits of orthodontic treatment is a beautiful smile. While this is not a necessity, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests that a beautiful smile is of great value.
Studies have shown that people with a great smile are thought to be:
*More intelligent * More likeable
*More productive * Higher Achievers
*More successful * Honest
*More trusting * More Brave
*More outgoing
Perceptions may not be accurate, but they are powerful. As a society, we form instantaneous judgments that determine what extent we listen to, believe, are skeptical of, consider, doubt or trust what a person says, based solely on their appearance. These are only initial judgments and can be changed should we choose to get to know someone better. You never get another chance to make a great first impression!
Interesting facts based on several studies…
Attractive People:
1– Are afforded the opportunity to earn 12-27% more income.
2– Have disproportionately more opportunities to date and marry.
3– Are assumed to have greater intelligence, capability and personality.
An independent study conducted on the behalf of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry found that:
¨ 99.7% of Americans believe a smile is an important social asset.
¨ 96% of adults believe an attractive smile makes a person more engaging to members of the opposite sex.
¨ 74% of adults believe an unattractive smile can lessen a person’s chances for career success.
¨ 88% say they remember someone with an attractive smile.
¨ Only half of Americans are satisfied with their smiles.
While I cannot claim to have saved a life with orthodontic treatment, I have had many patients state that orthodontics have dramatically changed their lives. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to watch the transformation of my patients as they advance through treatment. With beautiful smiles, I see my patients blossom in self esteem, confidence and personality. Are these assets essential? In the words of John Ray,
“ Beauty is power, a smile is its sword.”

Dr David Hoffman is an orthodontic specialist and Premier Invisalign Provider serving the communities of North Scottsdale and Central Phoenix at Arizona Orthodontic Studio. Call (480) 451-3088 today to schedule your complimentary consultation. Make sure to mention that you are a member of AZ on the Rocks.