Aging can change your body in many ways, and the condition of your smile is no exception. Although enamel is the hardest substance produced by the human body, it’s not entirely invincible. Over time, daily wear and tear eventually takes its toll.
Your dentist offers various cosmetic treatments to address aesthetic imperfections in your grin, but some older adults assume that they’ve waited too long to be able to undergo the desired procedures. If you’re a senior interested in enhancing your appearance, continue reading to learn more about 3 potential ways your dentist can help!
Option #1: Whitening Your Teeth
Even those who have kept up a twice-daily dental hygiene routine all their lives might eventually notice that their teeth have begun to take on a yellow or brownish hue. This can occur when pigmented particles from the foods you eat cling to your enamel, especially after years of daily use.
Fortunately, many dentists offer topical teeth whitening treatments to brighten your smile. For example, an in-office procedure can potentially lighten your grin by several shades in a single visit. Many providers also offer take-home kits with ultra-concentrated gels designed to mitigate sensitivity and custom-fitted applicator trays for optimal results from the comfort of your living room sofa.
Option #2: Replacing Amalgam Restorations
Historically, dentists relied on amalgam mixtures of resilient metals to repair decayed or damaged teeth. Although these materials are durable enough to withstand the daily pressures of biting and chewing, they can also weaken the structure of your teeth or leave them looking dark and dirty.
If you’re feeling self-conscious about outdated dental work, you’re in luck! Today, most dentists use tooth-colored materials, such as composite resin or ceramic, to restore injured teeth. They can safely remove your amalgam filling or crown and provide a color-matched repair for seamless results you can rely on.
Option #3: Getting Porcelain Veneers
Did you know that seniors are also more likely to develop minor aesthetic imperfections, like chips and cracks, that can detract from their appearance? Your mouth is full of bacteria, and some of these produce acids that wear down your enamel over time. Cleaning your mouth consistently regularly removes these germs to prevent potential harm, but it’s still possible to develop minor injuries as the protective outer layer degenerates.
Thankfully, your dentist can place porcelain veneers to mask one or several flaws to upgrade your grin. These thin, ceramic shells are customized to match your natural teeth and then are cemented to their front surfaces for perfectly beautiful results.
If you’re still feeling uncertain about the best way to address your dental concerns and boost your confidence, you can learn more by scheduling a cosmetic consultation with your provider!
Meet the Author
Dr. Jared Waite has over 20 years of experience helping patients improve their lives by enhancing their dental condition. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Baylor College of Dentistry and remains committed to continuing education to offer the most current treatments utilizing state-of-the-art technology, including cosmetic services. He takes the time to learn about your unique needs, goals, and concerns, then devises customized treatment plans to address them. You can request an appointment on the website or call (719) 282-3400.