Weight gain, muscle strength loss, and changes in skin tone are just a few of the things that most of us experience as we age. However, one vital change that many aging people may not pay a mind to is their smile.
A 2012 study confirms the importance of a great smile when it comes to other people’s perception of you. We suggest that if you don’t want others thinking you’re older than you really are you should talk to your Century City cosmetic dentist about these three things and how he can help make your smile look younger.
Teeth Yellow Due to Aging
Teeth yellow as we age for a number of reasons. One is the consumption of dark-colored food and drink, such as berries, coffee, and red wine. However, food in general plays a big role in tooth discoloration, especially if you consume acidic foods such as citrus. By eroding away tooth enamel, the acid allows the enamel to absorb even more of the stain-causing substances.
Additionally, people who use tobacco products, smoking or chewing, put their teeth at risk for staining. Finally, medications may affect the color of your teeth as well.
If your teeth don’t have that pearly white look that you loved when you were younger, talk to your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist about tooth whitening.
Gums May Recede with Age
Remember the phrase “long in the tooth?” It comes from the age-old practice of checking a horse’s age by looking at the length of their teeth. Longer teeth meant receding gums. Receding gums meant an older animal.
Gum recession is most common in older people. In fact, in a study of nearly 10,000 people, only 38% of participants in their thirties had some recession, while 90% of those in their eighties had it.
While some people have receding gums due to heredity, one of the biggest reasons for a receding gum line is poor oral hygiene. To reduce your risk, brush and floss daily, and visit your Century City cosmetic dentist regularly.
Face Aging Due to Tooth Loss
It’s normal for your face to change as you age. Decreased muscle tone, increased wrinkles and dark spots, and dryer skin are all a part of getting older. However, people who have lost several teeth increase their chances of facial collapse, a reaction to the loss of jawbone.
Typically, the roots of your teeth stimulate the jawbone to keep it healthy and strong. Without the stimulation, your body determines you no longer need it and reabsorbs it. Loss of jawbone results in loss of support to your cheeks and jawline. Your face looks shriveled and your cheeks look hollow. You may appear much older than your real age.
While many dentists use dental bridges and dentures as a substitute for tooth loss, your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist knows the ideal solution is dental implants.
Talk to him about any of your concerns and take the time to keep your smile looking fresh and young through regular dental care.