Affluent patients in their 40s and 50s are a large and growing segment of the worldwide population and are changing dentistry as we speak. These adults possess a very different attitude towards dentistry than did their predecessors. They no longer consider tooth loss an inevitable consequence of aging and are willing to "put their money where their mouth is" which is why having a team of dental professionals that is trained to meet these patient’s unique needs is a priority at Artiste Studios.
Providing quality dental care for these patients can be very rewarding but also very challenging due to their requirements in wanting to delay the inevitable first visible dental signs of the natural aging process.
Even if you have always taken proper care of your teeth, you have by no doubt noticed that your gums have receded and that your teeth have yellowed or darkened over time. As you age your teeth also become thinner and more prone to breakage.
Aging causes loss of moisture throughout the body. The same goes for our mouth. Our teeth and bones become more brittle, and prone to breakages.
Less saliva in the mouth to wash away bacteria makes us more vulnerable to decay, infections, and periodontal or gum disease. Many medications can also cause dry mouth.
Gum disease, if not treated can lead to receding gums, loosened teeth, infections and tooth decay. Teeth can become more sensitive to hot and cold as the roots becomes exposed.
Why do my teeth seem darker?
You may notice that as you age it’s tougher to keep your teeth white. This may be true for a couple of reasons:
• Plaque builds faster and in greater amounts as we age
• Dentine (a bone-like tissue under the enamel) changes and causes your teeth to look darker
Suggested treatments: In-Studio tooth whitening, together with Diamond Cleaning sessions to remove stains and freshen breath, in addition to specific oral hygiene tips and techniques
There is a strong relationship between your oral health and your overall health. How your teeth age depends on how well you’ve cared for them over the years. It’s important to know that adults in their 40s and 50s need to specifically focus on protection of teeth, prevention of cavities and prevention of gum disease.
Suggested treatments: Crowns are recommended to help protect susceptible teeth from cracking, and now is the time to start these treatments. Teeth straightening as an option if crooked teeth are now becoming harder to keep clean: Aesthetic brace options are available.
The good news is that preventative dentistry and scientific advances are helping all adults keep their own teeth much longer. It’s never been more important to help protect your teeth and gums against oral disease and maintain overall good health.
You can do this by:
· Brushing and flossing real or replacement teeth twice daily
· Using toothpaste containing fluoride
· Eating a healthy diet and limiting sweets
· Avoiding tobacco. Smokers have a greater risk of developing gum disease than non-smokers
· Limiting alcohol. Alcohol and tobacco used together are the primary risk factors for oral cancers
· Visiting a dentist at least every six months
Book in for your check-up today, and let us know if you would like advice on the best way to maintain your teeth for the long term.