Aging is unfortunately, unavoidable – and there are certain consequences that go along with the natural aging process. Nevertheless, there are several things we can do to age gracefully. Your smile is not immune to the ravages of time. Over the years, teeth naturally darken, yellow, and wear down. As we age, we also become more susceptible to tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease.
You can help to delay age-related dental issues by continually caring for your teeth and gums. This includes a good oral hygiene routine as well as scheduling a professional dental cleaning every six months.
Cosmetic Enhancements
If your teeth are discolored due to any combination of smoking, consuming beverages like coffee and red wine, or age-related changes in tooth structure, you may attain the results you want with teeth whitening treatments. For a more permanent solution, you might opt for dental bonding, porcelain veneers, or dental crowns.
Worn teeth are another issue that can leave your teeth with an unattractive appearance. All teeth tend to wear over time, and if you happen to grind your teeth, this will accelerate the process. In some cases, the youthful look of your teeth may be restored by reshaping and enamel contouring, for more severe wearing crowns or veneers may provide a better solution.
Receding Gums
As we age, gums can shrink back or “recede from normal tooth coverage. This can be the result of over-aggressive brushing, a genetic disposition to thinner gums, or gum disease. Receding gums not only make teeth appear longer than normal – hence the phrase “long in the tooth” – but also expose vulnerable areas of the teeth to harmful bacteria. This can cause a cascade of issues which can significantly affect your dental health.
Cosmetic Treatment, Periodontal Treatment, and Repair Cracked Teeth in Chicago
At South Loop Dental Specialists, we provide expert treatment options to help restore your smile to its beautiful best. Whether you have receding gums or a cracked tooth in Chicago, IL, our dedicated team of periodontic and endodontic treatment professionals offer the services necessary to correct these issues and restore your dental health.