Sedation Clinics
As we age, our smiles can tell the story of a lifetime—laughs shared, meals enjoyed, and the inevitable wear and tear of time. However, not all these changes are welcome. From tooth wear to discoloration, the aging process can impact our smiles in ways that make us feel less confident. But fear not! Modern cosmetic dentistry offers a range of treatments to rejuvenate and restore the youthful glow of your smile. Here are three common changes that occur with age and the treatments that can help turn back the clock.
Tooth Wear and Shortening
Over time, teeth can become worn down from years of use, grinding (bruxism), or acidic erosion. This can result in a shorter, uneven appearance of the teeth, leading to an older look. Treatment: Porcelain veneers or dental crowns are commonly used to restore the original length and shape of the teeth. Veneers are thin shells bonded to the front of the teeth, while crowns cover the entire tooth, providing structural support and improving aesthetics.
Tooth Loss
As people age, they may experience tooth loss due to factors like periodontal disease, decay, or injury. Missing teeth can cause a sunken appearance in the face and impair the ability to chew and speak properly. Treatment: Dental implants are a popular solution for replacing lost teeth. Implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. Once integrated with the bone, they provide a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures. This not only restores the function and appearance of natural teeth but also helps maintain the structure of the jawbone, preventing further facial sagging and preserving a youthful look.
Tooth Discoloration
Aging often leads to the darkening or yellowing of teeth due to the thinning of enamel and the accumulation of stains from food, drinks, and smoking. This discoloration can make a smile look dull and less youthful. Treatment: Teeth whitening procedures, either in-office or at-home kits, can effectively lighten the shade of teeth. In cases of deep or stubborn stains, porcelain veneers or bonding with composite resin can be used to cover discolored teeth, providing a bright, uniform appearance.
About Our Practice
At Dental Wellness of Lexington, we believe that dentistry is about more than just treating patients as quickly as possible. We know that having a smile that you can take true pride in is life-changing, and not having one can be incredibly difficult. Whether you come to us to deal with the signs of aging, for complex restorative care, or even something as simple as a checkup, we’ll take the time to get to know you as an individual to make sure that our care matches your needs as a patient.
If you have any questions about cosmetic dentistry, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (859) 223-4644.