Cosmetic dentistry has rapidly become a very popular component of oral care because it focuses on improving the appearance of the teeth, mouth, and overall smile. Teeth can show signs of aging. Teeth that are worn down, chipped, yellow or stained can create a negative first impression. Years of natural use can result in teeth that are chipped and ground down. However, cosmetic dentistry can restore your teeth and fight the signs of aging.
Discoloration
Clean, white teeth give a healthy, youthful appearance to a smile. Everyday foods and beverages can stain your teeth. In addition, as we age the teeth can become naturally discolored as the enamel thins and the dentin begins to show through. Dentin is the yellowish colored middle layer of the tooth. Small cracks and chips in the tooth can draw in stains and these stains can be difficult to brush away. Teeth whitening can help with stains.
Cracks and chipped teeth
Tooth wear is the loss of tooth surface, which is not caused by decay or by an injury. As people age, there is a certain amount of wear and tear that occurs and is considered normal. Aged teeth are more likely to have chips, cracks or a generally uneven appearance. The back teeth become flatter, and the front teeth become shorter. Veneers can restore the natural appearance of healthy, youthful teeth. Porcelain veneers may be used to cover or mask various teeth imperfections.
Receding gum line
Gum disease or brushing too hard can cause gum recession. This recession in gum tissue can create space between teeth making the area look darker, and gum tissue look uneven. The gums have the tendency to recede in time, so aged teeth may appear gapped as a result. Bone loss is can also cause gum recession. A receding gum line is a sign of aging and can cause the teeth to look much bigger. Gum recession is not something you want to ignore. If you think your gums are receding, make an appointment. There are a number of treatment options available depending on the extent of the damage and your unique needs and preferences.
Missing teeth
Once a tooth is lost, the bone and supporting gum tissue begin to recede. Your teeth may feel firmly set in your jaw bone, but they are capable of movement. This is a good thing as it allows their position to adjust to changes brought on by age and other factors. But as soon as you have a gap from a missing tooth, adjacent teeth may begin to move or drift into the space. Dental bonding, dental bridges, porcelain veneers or dental implants can also fix gaps and replace missing teeth. Every tooth in your mouth plays an important role in speaking, chewing and in maintaining proper alignment of other teeth, so the sooner you can replace the tooth the better.
Each of these issues can be treated with cosmetic dentistry depending on the issue, personal desires and goals. Cosmetic dentistry is a specialized field of dentistry focused on the improvement and enhancement of smiles. Whatever cosmetic flaws you think you may have with your teeth, cosmetic dentistry has the appropriate dental treatments for you. Dr. Kulangara at Advanced Dental Arts will work with you to develop a treatment plan that utilizes the most advanced technology to give you the mouth you have always wanted.