Like all parts of the human body, teeth naturally change and develop as they age. Unfortunately, the years can leave your smile with many unsightly blemishes like chips, cracks, stains, gaps, and even tooth loss. Luckily, your cosmetic dentist is trained and equipped to address these issues with a range of aesthetic treatments designed to enhance your smile’s beauty. Here are a few of the ways in which your teeth can show their age as well as a few of the methods your dentist may employ to restore their youthful appearance.
Teeth Can Become Discolored as They Age
Dental enamel is the hardest material in the human body, but it is not invincible. Human teeth consist of an outer layer of white enamel, a softer layer of yellowish dentin underneath that, and soft pulp tissue at the center. While healthy teeth are typically a yellowish shade of white in their youth, the enamel layer will thin out over time and leave the smile with a more yellow appearance. To make matters worse, years of exposure to dark foods and drinks like coffee, red wine, and candy can leave unsightly stains and discoloration.
Thankfully, your dentist can often address this with teeth whitening treatment. This typically takes the form of a kit that includes customized dental trays and a tube of professional-grade whitening gel. You’ll only need to apply the gel to the trays and wear them for an hour daily for two weeks to lift stains and brighten your smile by up to eight shades.
The Years Can Wear Down Your Teeth
Since human teeth are not indestructible, decades of chewing, grinding, and oral injuries can gradually wear away the enamel and leave the pearly whites with a stubbier appearance. In other cases, a person might chip or break their teeth due to oral injuries. Since lost enamel does not grow back, the only way to restore your teeth after these injuries is to receive treatment from your dentist.
Your dentist may be able to address worn or broken teeth with veneers or metal-free dental crowns. These appliances are designed to replace lost or compromised dental structures with beautifully lifelike restorations that allow the teeth to function normally. To place these devices, your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from your teeth to make room after administering an appropriate anesthetic to ensure that you feel no pain. After your restorations are placed, you’ll be ready to show the world your transformed smile.
Don’t let age make you less willing to show off your grin. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the right cosmetic treatments for you.
About the Practice
North Garland Family Dental offers the most outstanding oral healthcare in town. Led by Drs. Yaritza Vazquez and Scott Peterson, the staff treats each patient with courtesy, respect, and excellent customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry. To schedule your cosmetic dental consultation, contact the office online or dial (972) 530-7979.
