There are numerous facelifts, micro lifts, and sculpting procedures performed in an attempt to restore youth. But do you know what shows you how old you are the quickest? Teeth that are dark and worn. It happens to everyone. And we all notice each other’s grins when we meet someone new for the first time, or when we haven’t seen each other in a while.
Subconsciously, most of us view teeth in poor condition as a classic sign of aging when the teeth are visibly in need of some extra care. Taking care of teeth and skin is relatively straightforward when you are young, but the challenges that come with years of use affect everyone eventually.
How might your teeth be adding years to your appearance? There are specific, inevitable changes that we all face. However, it is possible to restore a beautiful smile and care for teeth as you age with dental advances in cosmetic dentistry.
Let’s go through the ways your teeth may reveal your age, as well as some tips on how to keep them looking young.
What Are Some of the Most Common Signs of Aging in Teeth?
The health and beauty industries tout countless anti-aging remedies but the teeth show the effects of aging long before fine lines appear.
As experienced professionals, Dr. Hal N. Arnold and the Esthetic & Implant Dentistry team regularly see the following common signs of aging in teeth:
Teeth Discoloration & Staining
The first common sign of aging in your teeth is a darkening effect or discoloration on the enamel. It varies depending on what you eat, drink, and how often you brush and floss, but many other factors also lead to stains that get darker with age. For example, stains often appear with:
- Smoking or drinking
- Regular consumption of dark beverages, like coffee and red wine
Tooth Wear & Tear
After years of chewing and sipping, teeth are bound to show a bit of wear and tear. It is the chips and cracks that can occur in teeth as you age that cause cosmetic and health concerns. The front teeth are particularly susceptible to damage and can become visibly shorter with time, which alters the entire appearance of your face.
A change in the structure of these teeth will also directly affect the structure of your face. If your teeth are shortening or wearing down, a cosmetic dentistry procedure may help to correct the issues. A common effect of wear or cracks or chips is that they change the shape of your mouth, but there are solutions available to counteract these effects and restore your smile.
Gum Disease & Tooth Loss
It is natural and extremely common to see some receding in your gums as you age, but gum disease and tooth loss are concerning. You can avoid and treat these issues by recognizing that gum tissue is a delicate part of your mouth and requires consistent care. Gum disease that leads to tooth loss is a significant sign of aging and declining oral health, and it can lead to other complications that detract from your quality of life.
Why not prevent gum disease and tooth loss? Visit your dentist regularly, and commit to a consistent and thorough oral hygiene routine.
Failing Oral Hygiene
The final sign of aging teeth is a result of poor oral hygiene. Failing to care for the teeth also leads to myriad other issues, like bad breath and cavities. Halitosis is not only an unpleasant issue; it is a typical sign of decay and aging that indicates a possible lack of awareness.
Improving general oral hygiene brings many benefits for age-related issues and more. For example, you might be able to avoid or delay the onset of discoloration in your teeth by paying closer attention to brushing, flossing, and rinsing routines daily.
How to Combat the Signs of Aging in Your Teeth
Worn teeth are inevitable with age, but several cosmetic dentistry options can drastically improve the structure and appearance of your teeth. Procedures like tooth contouring, bonding, or veneers offer amazing results. Other issues like tooth loss, gum disease, and tooth cracks or chips may call for more in-depth procedures to protect the roots and gums.
If you’re concerned about the state of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry is an excellent solution for giving aging teeth a new lease on life. Contact Dr. Hal N. Arnold at Esthetic & Implant Dentistry today to schedule a consultation.