Cultural differences from nation to nation can be shocking. Our American ideal of imperfections might be just what another country believes is the bastion of beauty. One example would be a trend in Japan over the last several years called yaeba. While American women with imperfect smiles might avoid grinning altogether, Japanese women actually go through cosmetic procedures to make their teeth more imperfect. Of particular desire are accentuated and crooked canine teeth. Dr. Brent Engelberg, your Palatine cosmetic dentist, will explain more regarding this cultural dental curiosity.
What is Yaeba?
Dentists in Tokyo are used to their patients requesting “the yaeba effect.” In essence, mini-fangs are adhered, usually to the canine teeth. Canines are the teeth in your mouth that are pointiest. They are designed to help you tear into your food for proper breakdown before you swallow. Yaeba translates as ‘double tooth,’ and the sought after treatment runs approximately $400 for patients.
Imperfections Believed to Appear Youthful
There is a small sect of people in the United States that are so compelled by the idea of vampires that they opt for Dracula-esque adhesive fangs, or even have teeth shaved into sharper canines. However, this is not the goal of yaeba. The intent of the Japanese trend is to replicate a look that generally occurs as the result of delayed primary tooth eruption. Basically, Japanese women believe yaeba makes them look younger. In America, we find that teeth whitening makes us look younger. Straighter, smoother, more aligned smiles made possible by orthodontic treatments, dental bonding, porcelain veneers and other cosmetic treatments are what your Palatine cosmetic dentist gets the most requests for. Yaeba remains a trend that most likely won’t cross into the United States.
Consult with Your Palatine Cosmetic Dentist
Dr. Engelberg would love to help you reach the smile of your dreams, however that is defined. To schedule a consultation, call our 60067 dentist office at 847-259-8030. We are happy to serve patients in Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, Northwest Chicago Suburbs, and Northern Chicago Suburbs.
