IF you would like to take years off your smile and overall looks, ask your dentist about cosmetic procedures that can help. Your chronological age should never stand between you and a more pleasing appearance. Dentistry’s role in improving appearance is often misunderstood and underrated.

For example, many people believe that only dentures can alter the appearance of their smile, yet nothing could be further from the truth. Such cost-effective techniques as cosmetic contouring, bleaching, or bonding often work wonders – typically in a single office

Consumers spend billions of dollars yearly on services and products designed to make them look more attractive. Countless women – and increasing numbers of men – have facelifts and other surgical procedures to enhance their appearance and remain competitive in job markets where looking youthful is an asset. While many patients benefit from plastic surgery, others could be helped with cosmetic dentistry alone. After all, your smile is one of the most important parts of your face.

If your smile is attractive and healthy looking, it will take years off your appearance. If, on the other hand, your smile reveals worn, discoloured, chipped, or missing teeth, you’ll look older than you should, and no amount of plastic surgery can change that.
Here are Tips to keep your smile young:

1. Watch for unnatural wear and avoid grinding your teeth.
2. Take preventative oral hygiene seriously to avoid gum and bone loss.
3. Replace faulty fillings before they cause problems.
4. If crowns or bridges are worn down, replace them.
5. Lighten any discoloured teeth.
6. Replace any missing teeth as soon as possible.
7. Correct a bad bite.
8. Never chew ice or hard candy or suck on lemons.
9. Avoid abrasive habits such as aggressive tooth brushing.

As we age, the edges of the front teeth wear until these teeth are about the same length as the others. At the same time, the upper and lower lips lose muscle tone. The upper lip may sag, covering more or all of the upper teeth. The lower lip may also drop, allowing more of the lower teeth to show. The will teeth become darker in colour. These conditions create an older-looking smile. As they age, people stop taking proper care of themselves, including their teeth.

If this sounds like you, remember that it’s never too late to start taking care of yourself again. Many older adults today are seeking treatment to correct dental problems and improve their appearance. Don’t be left out. Visit your dentist today and get an expert opinion about enhancing your smile.