Are you a master selfie taker? If you are like most of America, you have likely become quite the selfie aficionado – or heard of them at the very least. Included this year in the Oxford English dictionary and making headlines from President Obama to Beyoncé, the term “selfie” was recently named the “Word of the Year” for 2013.
If you have ever tried to take your own selfie, you know there are good selfies, and there are bad selfies. As a pro, you know what goes into making a great selfie – from lighting to angle to expression, but you may be surprised to find out that your dentist has a say in how the selfie will turn out.
What Your Dentist Knows About Your Pose
Your pose will make or break your selfie. You need to be relaxed, yet poised and aware of your posture and expression. Experiencing neck and jaw pain can unfortunately ruin all of this, as you strain to maintain the pose and expression you are hoping for. If you suffer from TMJ or related jaw issues, you may end up with a pained or braced expression in your selfie. Grinding your jaw, significant stress, or even injury can cause you to clench muscles and appear tightened and uncomfortable in your otherwise awesome selfie.
What Your Dentist Knows About Your Smile
It may go without saying, but your dentist knows exactly what your teeth need in order to ensure that your smile willappear flawless in your next selfie. Yellowed, stained, chipped or crooked teeth can ruin your selfie, but your dentist can fix all of that without effort. Don’t rely on the infamous duck-faceselfie to hide it all.Your confidence shines through when you know your teeth are flawless. But how can you achieve that perfect look?
Be mindful of stains and discoloration. Lighting in your next selfie can pick up flaws, especially if you are around black lights or florescent bulbs. Discuss any imperfections you see with your dentist during these times, so they can be properly addressed going forward. Simple in-office teeth whitening procedures can help with various discoloration and staining issues you might have.
It Can Be Fixed
Chipped, damaged, and crooked teeth can also be fixed by various dental procedures. Your dentist may recommend dental or porcelain veneers to help correct chipped or broken teeth. Crowns and implants can be utilized for more substantial oral problems, including fully replacing missing or broken teeth. These can be as customized as you want, including porcelain construction that will match your other teeth. Your dentist will choose the adequate treatment for your issues, making sure your next selfie will look completely natural.
Whether you are sharing a quick camera-phone shot on Instagram or capturing an epic moment with your favorite celebrity, your dentist can help make sure the resulting picture is everything you want and more. Don’t waste your next perfect selfie photo op on a tight-lipped or duck face expression – smile and dream big instead!
About The Author
Dr. Jeffrey Pass, DDS, has been in private practice since 1987 and emphasizes cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry. A graduate of NYU College of Dentistry, Dr. Passpracticed privately in Manhattan, NY prior to establishing South Florida Dental Care in 1993. He regularly attends continuing education classes and is a member of the American Dental Association, the South Florida District Dental Association, South Broward Dental Society, and the Florida branch of The Seattle Study Club.
