According to the American Psychological Association, approximately 40 – 50% of first marriages end in divorce. Second marriages fare worse, with 60 – 67% ending in divorce.
The age group with the highest divorce rate is 25 – 39, with most ending within five years of marriage. This is followed by individuals aged 40 – 54. The most common reasons for divorce are communication breakdowns, infidelity, and money problems.
Yet, a drop has also occurred in the number of marriages. Comparatively, the divorce rate in the U.S. has balanced with a decade ago based on stats from the U.S. Census Bureau, which shows a marked decline in marriage rates. In 2019, only 33 of every 1,000 unmarried adults got married with 35 in 2010 (for every 1,000 unmarried adults). In 1970, the marriage rate was 86.
Dating can be complicated for anyone, but especially so for those re-entering the dating arena after divorce. While some individuals feel ready to jump back in quickly, a poll from Divorce Magazine shows some differences between men and women.
Divorced individuals were asked, “How long did you (or will you) wait after your divorce to start dating again?” Respondents included 340 male and 735 females.
For women, approximately 40% claimed waiting a full year before dating again with 22% who admitted the desire to start dating immediately. Male respondents would wait less time, with 14% stating they would wait at least a month and 13% waiting 6 – 12 months.
Averaged together, 26% wanted to start dating immediately after divorce with 14% feeling they would wait between 6 – 12 months.
We see many adults who wish to resume dating after a divorce. While keeping their teeth clean and having fresh breath is important, the confidence of having a beautiful smile is typically the motivating factor that gets them in the consultation room. And, for good reason.
Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. A survey of 5500 people conducted by Match.com showed that 58% of men and 71% of women ranked teeth as being the most attractive asset their date can have.
The affects of smiling go beyond appearance. Knowing a smile looks good tends to cause the recipient of your smile to smile back. (You’re both off to a good start already!) Additionally, the stimulation of smile muscles cause a release of endorphins. This triggers a positive feeling in the body that others can associate being with you. It’s a win-win!
Because men may be willing to “get back out there” sooner than women, some simple steps in dentistry can get them smile-ready. In many cases, men can benefit greatly with a thorough dental cleaning to ensure teeth and gums help to project a healthy, hygienic individual overall.
Real Men Real Style reports that an attractive smile can improve facial appearance and portray good grooming habits. However, they warn that a smile can “also be a hindrance if the teeth are noticeably dirty.” Of course, this is just as true for women.
Discolored teeth often occur from an inadequate (or infrequent) oral hygiene routines at home as well as staining from coffee, tea or wine. Because smoking can be a turn-off, stains from smoking are an added reason to quit. Teeth also become more brown or yellow with age as the outer layer of enamel thins.
For discolored teeth, people often turn to what is deemed a quick-fix. Over-the-counter tooth whitening products can provide a slight improvement for some teeth staining. However, these products do not generally provide results that last for long periods. Because they tend to require application frequency, the costs for repeated use can add up.
For the best level of whitening (regardless of why teeth are discolored), an in-office whitening process overseen by a dentist is advised. These are generally inexpensive and results are more dramatic and far more lasting than drug store teeth-whitening kits.
We use the Zoom 2 Whitening system for our patients. The process takes about an hour and results are typically immediate. Through a whitening system overseen by a dental professional, you can receive a higher degree of whitening in a process that doesn’t cause gum sensitivity.
For adults who have teeth that are chipped, crooked, broken or missing, our Shelby Township dental office offers complete cosmetic dentistry procedures. These include porcelain veneers, porcelain crowns, crown-&-bridge, dental implants, dentures and partials. These options all have a natural look and feel with excellent longevity.
Our patients also know us for our gentle touch and environment of comfort. We offer oral and I.V. sedation (“twilight sleep”) when desired. Both are safely administered and recovery is quick. Learn more at: DrBarbatComfort
If treatment costs are an obstacle, our Macomb County dental office offers several payment plans that are affordable to most budgets. Through these, patients are able to enjoy their beautiful smile while making interest-free monthly payments. Most require no down payment.
There is nothing that boosts confidence and self-esteem like a beautiful smile. In a survey conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, people were asked to rank what makes them most insecure. The leading concern had to do with their “Smile” (over 75%), followed by a distant “Weight” (14.49%).
The positive feelings that come with a smile that looks great reveals itself from the inside out! The Academy also shared that smiling often can add an average of 7 years to one’s lifespan.
If you find yourself in need of any type of cosmetic dentistry, select your cosmetic dentist carefully to get the most natural look and feel – and for the smile balance that complements your facial features.
I’ve achieved Fellowship status in the world-renowned LVI Institute For Advanced Dental Studies and am a member of the International Association of Physiologic Aesthetics. Additionally, I’ve completed extensive training to achieve the designation of a Neuromuscular Dentist. This allows me to incorporate measures into procedures that respect the balance of proper bite alignment. Through this, our patients can avoid TMJ (jaw joint) associated problems, such as headaches, night-time clenching or grinding, chipped or broken teeth, and ear ringing.
Begin with no-cost to you through a free consultation appointment. Just tap here or call to speak with a friendly staff member: 586-739-2155.
You may also want to visit our Smile Gallery. And, you’re invited to get to know our dental office at: DrBarbatTour
Sources:
https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2023/07/marriage-divorce-rates.html
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2013/04/marriage
https://www.realmenrealstyle.com/first-things-women-notice/
https://www.npr.org/2021/07/11/1014019821/flirting-how-to-dating-romance-advice
