Physical appearance and beauty standards hold prime importance all over the world, and South Korea is certainly no exception to that rule. In fact, it’s estimated around one in three South Korean women aged between 19 and 29 have had plastic surgery, and smiles, in particular, are one of the most important personal assets. Every South Korean desires straight, white and healthy-looking teeth, and many people are currently turning to some key popular treatments to achieve that goal.
Dental hygiene
Dental treatment doesn’t come cheap in South Korea. For this reason, Koreans tend to take very good care of their teeth. After all, no cosmetic treatment will look good or last as long as it can if dental health isn’t kept a priority. Teeth are typically brushed at least twice a day to remove germs and plaque. Ideally, teeth should be brushed in gentle, circular motions to get rid of plaque adequately. When teeth and gums are neglected, the build up of plaque can result in gingivitis (or early gum disease). Gingivitis is characterized by inflamed gums that bleed easily while brushing your teeth. Once the plaque has hardened, a dentist is required to perform deep cleaning, eliminate the plaque, and restore dental health. Flossing is just as important as brushing. Flossing removes food debris, stimulates the gums, reduces plaque, and helps keep inflammation at bay.
Cosmetic contouring
Cosmetic contouring (also known as teeth reshaping or odontoplasty) is a simple procedure that improves the appearance, size and shape of teeth. It’s particularly effective at correcting chipped, cracked, crooked, or poorly aligned teeth. Contouring can also fix damage caused by teeth grinding, a common condition known as bruxism. Not only do teeth look better after a contouring treatment, but they’re also much easier to clean and keep clear from debris and plaque. During contouring, the dentist uses either a drill or a laser to carefully remove some of the teeth’s enamel, ultimately improving the shape and length of the teeth. It’s a fast and painless treatment that needs no recovery time. In fact, contouring is usually completed in one single session with no anaesthetic necessary. It’s no wonder South Koreans can’t get enough of this treatment.
Permanent smile surgery
Permanent smile surgery turns the corners of the mouth upwards to create a permanent smile. An invasive treatment, it involves a bone-cutting procedure that realigns the upper and lower jaws before adjusting the facial muscle tissues that support the mouth with the aim of lifting and curling sagging mouth corners. With this treatment, South Korean’s are left with permanent smiles on their faces — even when they’re not actually smiling. Permanent smile surgery is popular for its ability to create a bright, happy and smiley appearance, which in turn makes people look better and more put together, and increases feelings of confidence.
A beautiful, healthy smile will always be on-trend in South Korea. Dental hygiene, cosmetic contouring, and permanent smile surgery are some of the most popular ways of achieving perfect teeth.
