New Haven Dental Group is a 42 North Dental Care, PLLC practice and is owned and operated by dentists Dr. Samuel Shames, DDM. and Dr. Ronald Weissman, DDM. Gentle Dental is supported by 42 North Dental, LLC, a dental support organization that provides non-clinical administrative and business support services to the practice. 42 North Dental, LLC does not own or operate the dental practice or employ dentists to provide dental services. Find more information about 42 North Dental, LLC and the dental practices it supports at 42northdental.com.
If you have more than a few decades of life experience, you can be glad to experience the privilege of aging! However, that does not mean you should enjoy everything about getting older. For example, you might notice that the appearance of your smile is changing as the years pass. How exactly can aging affect your smile, and what can your dentist do to help you maintain a youthful appearance? This blog post provides some helpful information.
How Aging May Affect Your Smile
Here are a few examples of how your smile might change over time:
- Stains and discoloration. For many people, their tooth enamel becomes thinner with age, which makes it easier to see the yellowish dentin underneath. Stains from many years of drinking coffee and tea can also become more visible.
- Changes in the position and shape of teeth. Some seniors find that their teeth are shifting out of place, leading to narrower dental arches and an altered bite. Natural wear on the teeth can also affect their shape, causing them to shorten.
- Gum recession. Gum disease, overly enthusiastic toothbrushing, and the passage of time can all contribute to gum recession, which may make your teeth appear longer.
- Oral health issues. Missing teeth, gum disease, and other oral health complications are more common among the older population. These issues can affect the way your smile looks and feels.
Rely on Your Dentist for Help
With the help of a qualified dentist, you might find that it is surprisingly easy to maintain a youthful and healthy smile throughout your lifetime. Here are some treatments that you might benefit from:
- Teeth whitening. Professional teeth bleaching formulas can remove even some very stubborn and deep-set stains.
- Crowns and veneers. These restorations can disguise a range of aesthetic imperfections. Crowns can also support the health and function of your teeth.
- Gum treatments. Gum disease therapy, gum recontouring, and other services can help your gums to stay healthy and proportionate with the rest of your smile.
- Tooth replacement. Dental implants are an incredibly natural-looking way to rebuild lost teeth.
Other Ways to Protect Your Smile
In addition to relying on your dentist to help you maintain your smile’s appearance, you should also make lifestyle choices that support healthy and beautiful teeth. For example, you should:
- Make sensible eating choices. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet can support your oral health and overall wellness.
- Stay physically active. Routine exercise can lower your risk of diabetes, a dangerous disease that can affect the health of your teeth and gums.
- Be committed to oral hygiene. Thorough brushing and flossing are critical for oral health. If you have mobility limitations, consider investing in an electric toothbrush and water flosser.
You may be able to enjoy a healthy and attractive smile at any age! Talk to your dentist about your treatment options.
Meet the Practice
The experts at New Haven Dental Group are proud to offer restorative and cosmetic services for adults of all ages. If you are concerned about how the passage of time has affected the health or appearance of your smile, our team is ready to consult with you. Contact our friendly and knowledgeable staff at 203-712-4068.