Australian dentists are reporting a boom in cosmetic dentistry, with some practices experiencing a 60% increase in demand, according to a story in the Age newspaper.
Middle-aged women are partly driving the trend, using their "later in life" disposable income to correct stained and crooked teeth, the paper reported. And while older patients may have previously shied away from traditional metal orthodontic appliances, the advent of Invisalign has sparked significant growth in the number of adults seeking this treatment, according to the article.
There is also a growing consensus among business people that improving the appearance of their smile can enhance their careers, the paper reported.
"We need to not forget that by improving someone's appearance, their smile, their self-esteem, and ability to get out into society and function a bit better, whether it's helping people in their employment or to get a job, that's an aspect of health," Matthew Hopcraft, BDSc, PhD, Victorian president of the Australian Dental Association, told the newspaper.
