Your body will undergo many changes as it ages, and your teeth are no exception. Over time, loss of muscle, bone, and other factors become a telltale sign of maturity. However, understanding how these changes come about is the first step to combating them with cosmetic dentistry. If you’re curious about what the transformation of your smile might look like, continue reading.
Tooth Discoloration
One of the most noticeable changes in an aging smile is tooth discoloration. Over time, your enamel (the hard, outer layer of your teeth) can wear down. This exposes the color of the dentin underneath, which is naturally more yellow than white. Additionally, years of stains can accumulate within your teeth through dark-colored food and drinks or smoking and using tobacco products.
Wear and Tear
Your teeth endure a lot of wear and tear throughout your life. Chewing, grinding, and general use can cause the enamel to thin out and teeth to flatten or become more fragile. Other time, this can lead to chips or cracks, and even gradually change the overall shape of your teeth. This dental damage can be especially prominent in older patients who grind their teeth at night.
Gum Recession
Gum recession is also a common issue as patients grow older. When the gum tissue that surrounds your teeth pulls back or wears away, it exposes more of the tooth or its root. This can make teeth appear longer and increases the risk of cavities and gum disease, which will further degrade your smile’s appearance.
Tooth Loss
Possibly one of the more devastating issues that can affect the look of your grin, tooth loss can lead to bone loss in the jaw. As time goes on, this issue worsens to a point where your facial muscles are no longer supported and your jaw shrinks. This is known as facial collapse and is very common among older patients—especially those with ill-fitting dentures.
How Can Cosmetic Dentistry Help?
Cosmetic treatments can restore your smile in a number of ways from brightening yellowed teeth to repairing chips and cracks. Porcelain veneers, in particular, can be very effective at reshaping your smile and making you look years younger. Dental implants are a fantastic option for tooth loss that will keep your jawbone stimulated and strong, preventing facial collapse!
Aging gracefully includes taking care of your smile. By understanding how your teeth and gums change over time, you can take proactive steps to maintain your youthful appearance. Contact your dentist today if you’re interested in turning back the clock on your teeth. They can provide personalized treatment advice to return vibrance to your smile with cosmetic dentistry.
About the Practice
If you’re looking for an accomplished dentist in the Dallas area, Dr. Robert Mitchell is both skilled and highly educated. He earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and has been dedicated to improving his knowledge of dental technology and techniques. Call (972) 233-1311 to schedule an orthodontic consultation at North Dallas Cosmetic Dentistry – Robert B. Mitchell, or visit the website to see a full menu of services they offer and learn more about the practice.
