How the Aging Process Affects Our Teeth

We all know it is a simple fact of life that age impacts our bodies and health in various ways. But many patients at our Manhattan Beach Cosmetic Dentist office are surprised at the effects that aging has on their teeth. There is no way around the fact that your teeth will become darker and more yellow as you age.

Aging and Tooth Whiteness

A common cause of teeth discoloration is dental staining. This can be a result of the foods you eat, drinks you consume, and tobacco use. Beverages like coffee, tea, and cola can darken and stain teeth over time. Dark berries and chocolate may also cause discoloration. However, tobacco use is a primary contributor to cosmetic dental problems.

As if this isn’t enough, natural changes to tooth enamel as we age can make teeth appear dark and dull. As children our teeth are naturally white and bright. Underneath this pristine white tooth enamel is a yellowish layer called dentin.

When you are young, the dental enamel is strong and completely masks the dentin. But as we age this enamel just naturally wears with age. Not only does it become thinner but it also becomes more porous. The porous nature of the enamel begins to attract microscopic food particles. On top of that the thinning of the enamel makes the yellow dentin underneath more noticeable.

Professional Teeth Whitening

Even if you are diligent about taking care of your teeth, you will likely experience these changes since they are just a by-product of the aging process. But this does not mean that you are destined to go through life with a smile that gets duller and more yellow with age. The Manhattan Beach Cosmetic Dentist offers effective cosmetic treatments that will whiten dental enamel quickly and easily.

Teeth whitening is painless, and patients see results after only one or two sessions. If you have dental stains that are resistant to traditional whitening methods you may benefit from dental Lumineers. Lumineers are thin layers of porcelain that are placed directly over dental enamel. Consequently, they can give patients the white teeth they want regardless of the cosmetic problem.

You don’t have to live with a smile that is less than dazzling even though some tooth discoloration is natural. If you’re concerned about the impact the aging process is having on your smile, contact our dentist for a free consultation. We will be happy to work with you to find the cosmetic treatment that is best for you.

Dr. Erick Gutierrez