Damaged enamel and chipped, weakened teeth are some of the side effects of regular nail biting, according to one dental specialist.

Writing in the Huffington Post, dentist Dr Thomas Connelly stated that although not everyone will experience problems, he often observes patients displaying evidence of harm caused by the habit.

Dr Connelly explained that due to the number of clients he treats who want cosmetic dentistry to fix their smile, he has plenty of evidence to draw the conclusion that there is a direct link between tooth damage and chewing fingernails.

“I’ve seen too much first-hand to ignore this, in my mind – and professional opinion – it’s a fact that nail biting can hurt your teeth,” he said.

Meanwhile, industry professionals have reported a rise in the number of individuals seeking treatment for problems such as sensitive teeth and worn away enamel caused by teeth grinding, according to Medical News Today.

Anaesthesia in the dentist’s office causes anxiety for many.

Many cosmetic dentistry patients get anxious by the thought of anaesthesia, a new survey has shown.

Up to 85 per cent of people feel worried about the use of anaesthesia, according to a poll carried out by the University of Salford.

It showed that the top concerns were waking up during surgery, not waking up after the treatment and simply the general feeling of unease in the run-up to the procedure.

Mark Mitchell, senior lecturer in the Faculty of Health and Social Care at the University of Salford, said: “Our survey underlines the importance of patients receiving planned and timely information about anaesthesia, prior to the day of surgery, in order to limit their dental anxiety.”

Elsewhere, research carried out by Dr William H Frey and his colleagues at Regions Hospital in St Paul, Minnesota and published in the American Chemical Society’s bi-monthly journal Molecular Pharmaceutics showed the use of a nasal spray or drops in place of injections could be equally effective for anaesthetising patients who are undergoing treatments.

Many people over 40 who are looking for work are having their teeth whitened.

Many older jobseekers are turning to cosmetic dentistry to improve their prospects of finding employment, it has been revealed.

The Grand Forks Herald reported that the number of men and women over 40 and looking for work who come in for treatments has increased as a result of the economic downturn and this is a trend that looks set to continue.

Dr Susan Mathison of Catalyst Medical Centre in Fargo told the publication: “I think that people in their 40s and 50s are feeling like they’re competing for positions with younger potential job candidates, so looking their best is very important to them.”

She added that many feel having a fresh look will help them secure work.

Elsewhere, Jim Arnold of Valpolife.com recently said that many individuals often begin to think about brightening up their smile using teeth whitening treatments at this time of year, as the summer months are often the time when people want to look their best.

Cosmetic dentistry can have a positive impact on a person’s smile.

Anyone worried about the appearance of their smile has been reassured that there are treatments available that can help them solve this problem.

Daily Breaking News reported that cosmetic dentistry has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years and there is now a procedure to help even the most difficult of issues.

For example, missing teeth can be replaced using permanent dental implants, meaning people no longer have to rely on dentures, while those with extremely stained and discoloured teeth – be it through smoking or drinking large amounts of coffee – can have their smile brightened using the latest teeth whitening techniques.

Meanwhile, this month is National Smile Month in the UK and, as such, Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, has said that Brits should be doing all they can to keep their teeth healthy and clean.

Indeed, in order to further this message, the organisation has launched its new Teeth4Life campaign.

Many people are finding cosmetic surgery more acceptable.

Brits are becoming less adverse to cosmetic dentistry and plastic surgery procedures due to the influence of celebrity culture, it has been stated.

A spokesperson from the Transform Cosmetic Surgery Group said the impact of celebrities being open about the procedures they have had carried out in the past has meant that many people now also crave them in order to attain the appearance of their favourite stars.

She commented: “Whether it’s Simon Cowell confessing to having regular Botox, or Lord Alan Sugar admitting to having his eye bags removed, men, it seems, are no longer as self-conscious or embarrassed.”

According to a recent survey carried out by MyFaceMyBody.com, nearly three-quarters of men (72 per cent) and nine out of ten (93 per cent) females said it is important for a man to look after his appearance.

Indeed, when asked who influenced men most regarding their appearance, 46 per cent said their girlfriend or spouse, but 19 per cent pointed to celebrities.

A new form of anaesthesia could replace needles for dentists.

Brits undergoing cosmetic dentistry procedures will soon be able to undergo local anaesthesia that does not entail large needles, it has been revealed.

According to an article in the American Chemical Society’s bi-monthly journal Molecular Pharmaceutics, researchers have found that the use of a nasal spray or drops in place of injections could be equally effective for anaesthetising patients who are undergoing treatments.

Dr William H Frey and his colleagues at Regions Hospital in St Paul, Minnesota, found that nasal sprays of lidocaine are extremely effective at acting on the trigeminal nerve – the nerve responsible for sensation in the face.

As such, the days of large needles to numb the teeth and gums could soon be coming to an end.

Elsewhere, US dentist Dr Joel Miller of Aesthetic Dentistry of Valencia recently told Homestation News that those suffering from bad breath should visit their dentist, as they can often provide stronger mouthwash that could tackle the problem effectively.

Brits advised about oral health during National Smile Month.

People across the UK have been told to brush twice daily as part of a new campaign launched to commemorate National Smile Month.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, has stated people should be doing more to ensure they do not lose their teeth as they get older and, as such, the organisation has launched its new Teeth4Life campaign.

He commented: “Use of interdental brushes and floss has risen but those who use them are still in the minority. So, things have improved but there is still a long way to go.”

Meanwhile, Hollywood actress and pop star Jessica Simpson was recently told by dentists to start brushing her teeth, after it emerged that instead of doing so, she relies on mouthwash only to remove any plaque from her teeth.

New York-based cosmetic dentist Dr Laura Torrado argued that, if this were the case, she could be running an extremely high risk of developing gum disease in the years ahead

May sees the launch of National Smile Month in the UK.

Some people in the UK may be encouraged to consider going for some cosmetic dentistry when this year’s National Smile Month kicks off.

The event is organised by the British Dental Health Foundation and gets underway in the Houses of Parliament on May 13th.

For 2010, the focus is on looking after teeth and keeping them healthy for life, with the tagline Teeth4Life hoping to raise awareness of this issue.

Everyone is encouraged to participate in the event, which takes place between May 16th and June 16th.

Chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation Dr Nigel Carter said: “Getting people to talk about their teeth and dental habits is vital in our goal of improving the state of oral health in this country.”

He also said that everyone from schools, hospitals, dental practices and Scout or Brownie groups can get involved.

Meanwhile, US dental professional Dr Robert Mondavi recently advised that when people see the effects of cosmetic dentistry they can experience a confidence boost.

Cosmetic dentistry can help people boost their confidence.

US dental professional Dr Robert Mondavi has claimed that carrying out cosmetic dentistry procedures can help patients to improve their confidence when they see the final results.

He stated dentists are now using the latest technology to provide outstanding improvements in appearance for people who feel they have bad teeth.

Indeed, having a rejuvenated smile can help people feel better about themselves and also improve their standing in the eyes of others. 

“Do not hesitate in getting the care you need for your teeth and those of your family members. Bad teeth and improper oral hygiene habits can contribute to overall poor health,” Dr Mondavi argued.

Oromo Index also recently advised that the range of options available to those looking to carry out cosmetic dentistry procedures has increased in recent years.

The news provider stated contouring or reshaping of misshapen teeth, teeth whitening treatments, bonding, dental veneers, bridges and gum lifts are now all viable options for those looking to brighten up their smile.

Susan Boyle has claimed she would consider cosmetic dentistry.

Star of Britain’s Got Talent and global singing sensation Susan Boyle has said she would like to have some cosmetic dentistry carried out in the near future.

Ms Boyle told Now magazine that she wishes to make her smile more aesthetically pleasing and will be looking to see a dentist in the near future.

She told the publication: “I would like to have my teeth done. But that would be it. I don’t want to change too much of myself.”

However, she added: “I won’t be looking like Barbie any time soon.”

After her first appearance on the ITV talent contest, Ms Boyle was dubbed the “hairy angel” by some quarters of the media. However, her debut album I Dreamed A Dream recently sold 8.3 million copies worldwide.

Elsewhere, Dr Philip Frill told Dentistry IQ that individuals looking for a smile that has impact might like to invest in dental veneers.

He claimed that dental veneers can be used to mask gaps in teeth or imperfections, resulting in an even, bright smile for patients.

Some of the many cosmetic dentistry that are now available have been highlighted.

Anyone wondering about the myriad of cosmetic dentistry procedures that are now available should look no further.

News provider Orom Index has revealed the range of options available to those looking to sharpen up their smile and the list includes contouring or reshaping of misshapen teeth, teeth whitening treatments, bonding, dental veneers, bridges and gum lifts.

Each procedure is designed to address specific problems. For example, whitening could people whose teeth have been discoloured through years of smoking, while reshaping or the use of dental veneers can help those whose teeth are crooked or buck-toothed.

Meanwhile, Pickering dentist Dr Steven Weiner recently told the Montreal Gazette that many older people are no longer suffering from bad teeth, but instead are feeling the pain caused from poor gum health.

He noted that advances in cosmetic and emergency dentistry have helped people keep their teeth for longer, but in old age, the gums still can become an issue.

A winner of a US lottery is to have his front teeth replaced.

A winner of the US Powerball lottery has said the first thing he plans to do with his winnings is pay off some bills and get his missing front teeth replaced. 

Chris Shaw, 29, a store clerk from Missouri, has said his plans for the money are already being formulated, with his top priorities being carrying out some dental work, paying his bills and giving a friend the money he owes him for a new truck.

“We had been kidding each other all day about winning it, but no one actually thinks they will win,” Mr Shaw claimed.

Elsewhere, Inter Milan defender Maicon might also need to splash out on some emergency dentistry after a clash with Barcelona’s Lionel Messi in the Champions League semi-final first leg on Tuesday (April 20th) saw one of his teeth accidentally knocked out.

He was stretchered from the pitch during the game, but may have been happy to see his teammates run out 3-1 winners by full time.