It’s easy to see how an attractive smile improves your prospects for, say, winning a beauty pageant or getting a date. What not everyone realizes is that improving the look of your teeth could also benefit their professional life. Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz discusses ways in which cosmetic dentistry in Astoria, NY ups the ante in your search for the perfect career.
Straight Teeth, Straight to the Top of the List
Any hiring manager will tell you that a candidate must do more than just look good on paper. The interview process is critical in selecting the right person for the job, and even a single misstep could derail your impressive credentials.
Kelton Research published a study showing that, assuming equal experience, education, and salary requirements, a candidate with crooked teeth is perceived to be 45 percent less likely to be hired than a candidate with neatly aligned teeth. A job seeker who opts for traditional metal braces faces a double-edged sword, as visible orthodontia has been linked to perceptions of immaturity–an argument for ClearCorrect invisible braces, to be sure.
According to the Kelton study, people also perceive that someone with crooked teeth is 58 percent less likely to be successful or wealthy. Although these are only perceptions, it’s worth noting that others’ views often shape the way we view ourselves. And in a job market where you need every possible advantage, ignoring the health and appearance of your teeth is just too risky.
Developing Your Professional Persona
Actually, job seekers aren’t the only ones who benefit from cosmetic dentistry. From the mail room to the corner office, your teeth continue to impact how others perceive you as a professional. The Center for Talent Innovation conducted a study of employers and their employees to determine the relationship between professionalism and physical appearance. The results? After bad skin and dated hairstyles, crooked or yellow teeth were the most powerful means of undermining one’s “executive presence.” Professional teeth whitening is one option; patients whose teeth have several cosmetic flaws may benefit more from porcelain veneers.
Not Just a Matter of Appearance
Although cosmetic dentistry improves the look of your smile, the health of your teeth and gums cannot be overlooked. Poor oral health impairs performance and increases the number of days missed from work. The result? An expensive, often painful struggle to regain control. If you find yourself in need of a filling or crown, says Dr. Leibowitz, it’s best to make an appointment as soon as you are able. He also recommends schedule a professional teeth cleaning and full dental checkup at least once every six months, as this can eliminate the need for costly dental work in the long run.
For more information about cosmetic dentistry in Astoria, NY, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, contact us at (718) 728-8320. We welcome patients living in and around Astoria, Queens, NYC, upstate New York, and New Jersey.
