While dental care costs money, there is a social cost of going without dental care. There is even a chance that having missing teeth might lower your income. Research led by Daniel Hamermesh (professor of economics at the University of Texas) found that better looking people had 5 to 10 percent more income, on average, than people with what would be considered “average” or “below average” in looks. According to the research, teeth played a huge role in deciding someone’s level of attractiveness. Rolling Meadows dentist, Dr. Brent A Engelberg, will speak more about the high cost of not replacing missing teeth.
More Fluoride, More Teeth
Fluoride infused water supplies have been standard in many neighborhoods, causing a significant decline in tooth decay over the last 75 years or so. When you are exposed to ample fluoride, tooth decay rates drop and you are more likely to be able to keep all of your natural teeth. This is interesting when looked at in a research study. Sherry Glied and Matthew Neidell of Columbia University School of Public Health examined the connection between fluoridation and job income. Their research found that women who grew up in communities with fluoridated water tend to earn 4 percent higher salaries than similar women who have access to such a fluoride supply. (more…)
