Even with the best dental care, our teeth and their overall health tend to decline as we age. Much of this is due to the fact that our bodies no longer absorb needed calcium. Calcium is an important part of bone and teeth health. Supplements and an increase in diets with calcium do not work as effectively as when we were younger. What then, are out options to improve the overall look of our teeth? More than half of the adult U.S. population surveyed over age 50 agree that a smile is the one physical feature that stays the most attractive as we age, according to a survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Invisalign

Braces may be an option if your teeth are simply becoming crooked or overcrowded over the years. Invisalign is not an option for those with loose or missing teeth. The Invisaligh is very similar to traditional braces, but they are much more discrete. Braces tend to be associated with teenagers and young adults, making many older adults more ashamed to wear them. No one will be able to tell that you have received cosmetic dentistry, in the form of Invisalign braces.

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are a great option for those with missing teeth. They can also be beneficial in other types of dental problems. Four examples of issues that veneers can fix are discolored teeth, misaligned teeth, gaps between the teeth, and chipped or broken teeth. Essentially, they are a tooth that is created out of porcelain to mimic the look of a real tooth. They are implants that are put into the place of the missing or broken tooth and then bonded to a nearby tooth. Some cosmetic dentistry practices have the ability to create a brand new smile with porcelain veneers.

Dentures

Dentures may be a last option for some. Age can affect the health of the teeth and the mouth and in some cases, it may be a better choice to remove the teeth that are remaining. General dentistry practices are usually responsible for the removal of the teeth and then the dentures will be created by the cosmetic dentistry office. One of the most common causes of removing the teeth is severe periodontal disease. Periodontal disease increases with age. Approximately 70.1% of adults 65 and older have periodontal disease. Good dental hygiene and regular dentistry visits can prevent some of the causes of periodontal disease, but it does not entirely reduce the chances.

Dental implants

Dental implants are a little different than porcelain veneers. A single dental implant is generally used to replace a missing tooth that has broken or fallen out. They are not matched the same as porcelain veneers and may not look as real. However, the dental implant cost tends to be cheaper than a porcelain veneer. The purpose of a dental implant is not generally for cosmetic reasons, but more for eating and comfort purposes.

Teeth whitening services

Sometimes, the only concern that we have with our teeth quality when we age is the color. Years and years of pop and coffee usage can break down the enamel of the teeth and leave them stained and colored. Of course you have the option of getting it replaced with a porcelain veneer. However, teeth whitening services can be more practical for treating discolored teeth. Although there are home teeth whitening products available, you are likely to see the best results at your cosmetic dentistry office.

Aging affects many different parts of our body, including our teeth. Aging can have an effect on the shape, color, and health of our teeth. With a healthy smile being so important to many people, consider your cosmetic dentistry options to improve the overall look of your teeth as you age. You can opt for invisalign for crooked teeth, porcelain veneers for discolored, broken, or gapped teeth, dentures for a full mouth replacement, or dental implants to correct a single tooth. Speak with your cosmetic dentist to decide which option is best for you.