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A recent study by the American Dental Association has revealed some startling statistics about millennials and oral health. According to the study, titled "Oral Health and Well-Being in the United States," 29 percent of lower-income individuals and 28 percent of millennials admitted that insecurities about the health and appearance of their teeth have negatively affected their ability to interview for a new job.

"These numbers are very disheartening to hear, given the difficulty younger workers and lower-income workers have experienced entering the work force," says Dr. Martin Abelar, a dentist in San Diego, California. "These are definitely people we should be rooting for in the job market."

The survey also found that one in four adults avoids smiling because they are embarrassed by their smile, and some even experience anxiety due to the condition of their teeth.

"It’s normal to have insecurities, but it goes beyond simply being insecure when those insecurities cause you anxiety or jeopardize your career," says Abelar. "Thankfully, in many cases, there’s a lot we can do."

From filling cavities to veneers and orthodontics, there are many options to correct the problems that cause smile-related insecurities. Many practices even offer financing for more expensive procedures and for those with no insurance coverage.

"Thanks to cosmetic dentistry, there’s no reason to let insecurities about your smile hold you back," says Abelar. "Don’t get caught in the trap of thinking you have to live in pain or settle for a smile that makes you unhappy."