So many wonderful things come with the passing of each year. We gain wisdom, experience, and new relationships. Not all aspects of aging are quite so desirable, however. Aging can take quite a toll on the appearance of our teeth, especially if we’ve picked up a few bad habits along the way. There’s another issue, though: What happens when your teeth make you look older than you really are? Dr. Todd Pizzi, a cosmetic dentist in Shrewsbury, MA, discusses ways in which cosmetic dentistry can restore a youthful visage.
Whitening for Stained, Yellow Teeth
Tooth enamel darkens slightly as you age, but an unhealthy lifestyle accelerates this natural process, sometimes irreversibly. For example, it takes only a few years of heavy tobacco use for teeth to take on a yellow or brown cast. Over-the-counter teeth whitening may remove light surface staining, but professional intervention is needed to lift the most resilient discoloration. Drinking coffee can have a similar effect, aging you by up to ten years, if not more.
White Fillings for Cavities
Years ago, silver and gold fillings were the only options available for filling cavities. These materials were durable and served their purpose well, but they did little to blend in with the surrounding teeth. Amalgam fillings are still available, but many patients prefer white fillings that can be tinted to precisely match your natural tooth color.
Porcelain Veneers for Broken, Worn Teeth
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, isn’t uncommon among adults, particularly women. The result is a gradual wearing down of the teeth that makes them appear flattened and leaves them fragile. Chipped, broken teeth age a person greatly, can harm their job prospects, and even create problems with confidence and self-esteem–things that interfere with one’s ability to age gracefully. Veneers also prove useful for filling in small gaps between teeth, creating the illusion of straighter teeth, and even brightening the smile when teeth whitening doesn’t elicit the desired results.
Dental Implants for Missing Teeth
Once a tooth is no longer in the mouth, it continues to cause problems if not replaced with implants or dentures. The surrounding teeth weaken and wear down as they are forced to withstand greater stress. The effect becomes more pronounced with each tooth lost, eventually creating a sunken, thin look in the face. Teeth replacements prevent the loss of tooth and bone, helping to maintain the structure and form of your face.
Considering cosmetic dentistry or dermal fillers? To learn more about our services, or to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, contact us at (508) 842-8838. We welcome patients living in Shrewsbury, Boylston, Hopkinton, Millbury, and the surrounding communities.
