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Did you know that the simple act of smiling can make you look younger? A recent study conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) found that the age of a person is most likely to be underestimated when he or she is smiling. Typically, individuals find smiling faces to be more attractive, upbeat, and youthful, a fact that some believe to be true because “smile lines” are hidden when someone is smiling or laughing.
Many people find that their smile starts to deteriorate in their 30s and 40s, mainly because of health habits and lifestyle choice. Damaged yellow teeth can definitely have the opposite effect on a person’s smile, which is where cosmetic dentistry can help. The AACD compiled a list of several tips to help reverse the aging effect on your smile. If you’d like your smile to give you a more youthful look, consider the following.
Tooth Contouring
Teeth naturally wear down and can even crack or chip as we age. Your cosmetic dentist can combat this with several common procedures. If the imperfections are minor, a simple polishing of worn edges and sharp angles can make them appear more aligned and symmetrical. For more severe issues, porcelain veneers and crowns can enhance a portion or nearly all of a tooth’s surface. In order to conceal gaps, stains, and chips bonding, or the placement of a tooth colored resin composite, can give the appearance of more attractive teeth.
Dealing with Wrinkles
Wrinkles located around the mouth are definitely telling of a person’s age. The AACD recommends that you use a moisturizer around your lips and wear a lipstick or gloss with a SPF of at least 15. This will help prevent further wrinkles. Avoid smoking, including second-hand as much as possible. And prevent premature aging by eating foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, beans and dark chocolate.
Replace Silver Mercury Amalgam Fillings
Dental amalgams have been used for decades to repair cavities, but because they can expand and contract over time, tiny cracks in teeth can possibly develop. Replacing them with a tooth-colored composite resin filling may not only alleviate breakdown of your tooth, but they can help brighten your smile too.
Over time, your teeth can become discolored from an array of environmental factors. While a whiter smile is more youthful, be cautious that you don’t over do it. “A youthful smile is not obviously white, but healthfully white.” Your cosmetic dentist has been trained to select the appropriate, natural shade for you. Once you’ve whitened, avoid staining drinks (grape juice, red wine, tea, coffee) and definitely don’t smoke. Rinsing with water after you eat or drink anything will also help to preserve your newly white smile.
It’s incredible the power that a smile has to transform your entire look. If you’re interested in looking younger, more upbeat, and more attractive, contact our office today and find out how we can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.
