Cosmetic Dentistry For A Youthful Appearance

As people age, changes inside their mouths take place. Not only can these changes be unhealthy, but they can also make you look older than you really are. A branch of dentistry known as anti-aging dentistry can help take years off of your appearance and may even make your facial structure appear more youthful. Here are some ways your cosmetic or anti-aging dentist can keep you looking young.

Eliminate A Hollow Appearance

If you have some missing back teeth, your cheeks may appear hollow. Also, missing your front or bottom teeth can make your top and bottom lips look sunken in. This adds years to your appearance and may even lead to self-esteem problems.

To eliminate a hollow or sunken appearance, your cosmetic dentist may suggest dental implants. After the rods for your dental implants are placed into your jawbone, artificial teeth will be attached to them. Implants look like natural teeth, and replacing lost teeth with implants will help prevent your other teeth from shifting, enhance your facial bone structure, and raise your self-confidence levels.

Consider Porcelain Veneers

As people age, their teeth become darker. Not necessarily from surface stains, but because their enamel becomes thin over time. As the enamel thins, the dentin is exposed. Because dentin is dark yellow, it shows through the thinned enamel. Bleaching treatments do little to brighten dentin-exposed teeth. Instead, your dentist may recommend porcelain veneers, which are coverings or little "jackets" that are cemented to your teeth to hide imperfections such as cracks, chips, and stains.

Veneers look just like your natural teeth and you should care for them as you would your natural teeth. You should be careful, however, when eating hard foods because the veneers can break off. Bonding treatments can also help hide stained teeth. Bonding dental material lasts anywhere from a few years to a decade.

Your dentist can then replace the bonding material or simply "touch it up." Porcelain veneers and bonding procedures are some of the most common cosmetic and anti-aging dental treatments. It is important to note that because these treatments are considered cosmetic or elective, your dental insurance may not cover the cost. Your dentist, however, may allow you to pay for your treatments in easy-to-manage installments. 

To learn more about how certain dental procedures can make you look years younger, make an appointment with a local cosmetic dentist like those found at Pinon Hills Dental, who will answer all of your "anti-aging" dentistry questions.