Men: Looking for a Better Job? Start by Visiting the Dentist
2010-05-12 at 08:31 am adminAn online poll of 289 general dentists and consumers confirms the traditional stereotype that men are less likely to visit the dentist than their female counterparts, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists dedicated to continuing dental education.
Why? Nearly 45 percent of respondents felt that men don’t see a need to go to the dentist, and about 30 percent of those polled reported that men may not visit the dentist because they are afraid or embarrassed to go. Almost 18 percent revealed that men just don’t have the time for a dental visit, and about 5 percent felt that men don’t even have a regular dentist.
This long-standing trend and excuse, however, may be disappearing as more men are climbing back into the dental chair – for a surprising reason.
“In my practice, more men are coming in and requesting bleaching, veneers and bonding,” says AGD spokesperson J. Nick Russo, Sr., DDS, FAGD. “Many have noticed the positive effects from a colleague’s improved smile and realize that a great smile has a lot of value in the business world.”
Dr. Russo also points to the fact that not long ago, most men worked for one or two employers throughout a lifetime and many did not think about the way their overall appearance affected their professional life.
“That’s not the reality today, with lay-offs and company closings across the board,” says Dr. Russo. “Today middle-aged men are competing for jobs with younger men, making appearance a heightened factor in their lives.”
Taking a back seat to new cosmetic concerns for men is the increased awareness of the overall health benefits of seeing a dentist biannually.
“As a dentist, I want men to come see me because they’re concerned about their health, however I’m glad to see them for whatever reason they come in,” says Dr. Russo. “Many times after men come back to the dentist they realize that proper maintenance and biannual checkups are the key to improving the way one looks and feels.”
Article from AGD patient resources. 2007.
Thanks for this interesting article. I was surprised with the statistic that said 30% of men don’t visit the dentist because they’re embarrassed to go – I actually figured this statistic applied to women.
The writer has a great point – a healthy smile and attractive appearance are a huge thing when searching for a new job, as a pleasant look can factor into their decision. I’d encourage all people – both men and women – to visit the dentist on a regular basis.
It is a very interesting trend in the society. While many people still do ignore their oral health and wait untill it is too late to go to the dentist, the new trend in “babyboomers” generation is to truly take care of their health in a comprehensive way. Many men are reconsidering their options when it comes to health and appearances. Many are staying in great physical shape and many undergo smile makeovers. A smile makeover when you are 50 can make you look 10 years younger, not to mention amazing benefits of a healthy mouth and it’s impact on overall health. We have a great deal of experience with middle-aged men that come to us for complete smile reconstructions and they obtain life-changing results! From a boost in their career, to a boost in personal life – a smile is the key to improved self-confidence and how people perceive you! It is after all the first thing people notice about you!