Could Your Teeth Be Aging You?

A smile is a powerful too! For many, it’s associated with success and youth. Even small stains and discoloration can diminish the appearance of your smile and make you look older than you are. If you feel like your teeth have lost a bit of their former luster, cosmetic dentistry offers many treatment options to restore their beauty. There are also a few steps you can take on your own to protect your teeth and your smile.

Learn More About Teeth Whitening

Whitening your teeth is an effective and affordable way to give your smile an upgrade. There are multitudes of whitening products on the shelves at your local grocery or drug store. While many of these are effective, it’s wise to discuss whitening your teeth with your dentist first to determine which type of whitening system will best suit your needs.

Your dentist also offers options for whitening your teeth with professional grade systems that may be safer and more effective. They can also advise you if you should encounter issues with sensitivity.

Protect Your Teeth From Staining

Knowing the foods and beverages that contribute to staining your teeth can help you protect them from discoloration. Some culprits to be aware of are:

• Coffee, tea, and red wine
• Soy sauce
• Curries
• Tomatoes or marinara sauce
• Black berries, raspberries, and blueberries
• Dark colas, sports or energy drinks

Rinsing with water after you consume these items helps to minimize their effects. Brushing your teeth shortly after is also helpful, although waiting at least 30 minutes after consuming acidic things like soda or marinara sauce can help protect your enamel from erosion.

Consistent Oral Care

Routine visits to your dentist every six-months are important for achieving and maintaining optimum oral health; however, you are actually your dentist’s greatest partner. Your home care routine also determines the health of your teeth and gums, so focus on brushing your teeth with proper techniques at least twice per day, and flossing at least once.

You may consider switching to an electric toothbrush if you haven’t already done so. These “smart” brushes do the hard work of brushing for you, while being gentle around your delicate gum tissue. Today’s brushes can tell you if your pressure is too much and when your two minutes of brushing time is up.

If you still feel like your teeth could use an upgrade, contact your dentist to learn more about cosmetic treatments such as dental bonding or porcelain veneers that can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

About the Author

Dr. Mark R. Simeone leads the highly skilled team at Chester County Dental Arts. Patients will find comprehensive services to meet their needs at our practice including orthodontics and sleep apnea therapy, which are services you may not find at other dental offices.

If you would like to learn more about our practice, we can be reached through our website, or by calling 610-383-1600.