In recent years, cosmetic dentistry has surged in popularity, with more adults seeking enhancements like veneers, aligners, and teeth whitening. The desire for a perfect smile is no longer limited to models or celebrities—it’s become a mainstream trend, with life events such as inheritances, divorces, or career changes often serving as the trigger for these expensive treatments.
For many, a perfect smile is seen as a symbol of success and wealth. Dr. Theresia Sudjalim, a specialist orthodontist, explains that “bad teeth are often associated with not being able to look after yourself,” suggesting that people are eager to demonstrate their ability to afford aesthetic treatments. In today’s society, where social media platforms display countless perfect smiles, the demand for cosmetic dental procedures has only increased. Sydney-based cosmetic dentist Michael Tam observes that beautiful smiles have become a social currency, with many adults seeking out treatments to stay competitive in both their personal and professional lives.
The link between a bright, white smile and career success has been widely recognized. A study conducted in the U.S. found that a straight smile is often associated with higher earning potential. For 52-year-old Rebecca Hay, the decision to invest $7,600 in braces to straighten her teeth was life-changing. “I was sick of feeling self-conscious in social and professional settings,” she says, acknowledging the boost in her confidence since undergoing treatment.
Cosmetic dentistry’s rise to mainstream popularity can be traced back to the 1990s, but its exponential growth occurred during the pandemic, a period known as the “Zoom boom.” As more professionals worked from home and spent hours on video calls, many began to dislike what they saw in the mirror and sought ways to improve their appearance. The British Orthodontic Survey of 2021 revealed that 84% of orthodontists reported an increase in adult patients, reflecting this new trend.
While some people opt for cosmetic dentistry to enhance their smiles for purely aesthetic reasons, others seek treatments to fix functional issues like misaligned teeth or bite problems. The treatment preferences often differ by generation—Millennials and Gen Zers are known for opting for dramatic changes, such as oversized “chiclet” veneers, while Baby Boomers and Gen Xers tend to favor more subtle improvements.
Major life events often serve as a catalyst for these cosmetic changes. Sudjalim points out that inheritances, job redundancies, and divorces are common triggers for adults seeking cosmetic dental work. Tam frequently treats patients undergoing a “glow-up” phase after significant life changes, such as separations or children leaving home. Many individuals in their 20s and 30s also pursue cosmetic dental treatments after saving enough money to pay for procedures that were out of reach during their teenage years.
For Rebecca Hay, the decision to undergo orthodontic treatment was rooted in her teenage reluctance to wear braces despite her overcrowded teeth. “I was more concerned about being called ‘metal mouth’ than about the condition of my teeth,” she recalls. However, orthodontic relapse—when teeth shift after braces—has led many adults to seek treatment later in life. Sudjalim often treats individuals who, after wearing braces as teenagers, neglected to wear their retainers and now require further adjustments.
Cosmetic dental procedures come with both risks and costs. Veneers and full arch implants often require the removal of existing teeth, making them permanent solutions. Dr. Arosha Weerakoont, a senior lecturer at the University of Queensland, cautions that cosmetic dentistry is a long-term commitment, especially for those opting for veneers, which may need to be replaced every 10 to 20 years.
The cost of cosmetic treatments varies depending on the procedure. Tam explains his typical “ABC” treatment plan: align, bleach, and composite bonding. Removable aligners like Invisalign cost between $8,000 and $10,000, while lingual braces, which are discreet and attached to the back of the teeth, can cost $10,000 to $12,000. Porcelain veneers can range from $650 to $2,200 per tooth, depending on the material, and in-chair whitening treatments can cost around $800 for significant results. For those in need of more extensive work, full arch implants, which cost between $50,000 and $60,000, involve the removal and replacement of teeth on both the top and bottom arches.
Despite the high costs, Tam asserts that investing in one’s smile can pay off in many ways. “There’s a strong correlation between an attractive smile and higher incomes. A great smile leads to better career opportunities, a stronger LinkedIn profile, and even a more appealing dating profile photo,” he says.
As cosmetic dentistry continues to evolve, more adults are recognizing the power of a beautiful, confident smile—both as a symbol of personal success and a tool for social and professional advancement.
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