Posted: October 2, 2012
People live a lot longer now than they used to, and the impact of longer lives on our bodies can be significant. Our teeth were not designed to serve us for a hundred years, and if you want to keep your teeth well into your golden years, you need to take extra care of them.
To maintain the health of your teeth, it’s even more important to practice good oral hygiene habits, including brushing, flossing, and making regular visits to the dentist for cleanings.
Even with good oral hygiene, your gums may recede, exposing your tooth roots to the risk of attack by dental bacteria. Periodontal treatment can help reduce this risk, but it cannot be prevented. Some people are able to retain their natural teeth, but others may lose them to gum disease or tooth decay. If you have lost one or more teeth, it’s important to replace them to prevent damage to other teeth and potential loss.
Your dental enamel will also naturally erode with time. As this happens, you may notice your teeth turning yellow or grey, and you may be tempted to try more aggressive tooth whitening strategies. Avoid the temptation–not only will over the counter tooth whitening not correct this type of tooth discoloration, overuse can damage your teeth and injure your gums. If you are unhappy with the color of your aging teeth, talk to one our cosmetic dentists and we will help you find the right solution for getting the bright smile you desire.
For help with other cosmetic or health concerns with aging teeth, please contact Frank R. DePaola DDS & Associates, LLC in Hoboken, NJ today for an appointment.
