You may wonder if you still qualify for cosmetic dentistry if you’re an older individual. It’s a natural question to ask. After all, you might think your aged body can’t handle a smile sprucing. However, that’s far from the truth. In fact, people of any age can receive service from a cosmetic dentist. As proof, here’s a summary of why you’re never too old for cosmetic dentistry and three example treatments that are great for seniors.
You’re Never too Old for Cosmetic Dentistry
Ultimately, cosmetic dentistry has no upper age limit. What really matters is that you feel well enough for treatment.
That said, your dentist will still want to perform an oral exam before doing cosmetic work. Smile improvements do better when prior dental health issues have been resolved. That’s especially important for seniors, since teeth and gums experience wear and tear with age. Once these other problems are solved, though, feel free to get any kind of cosmetic service — whether you’re 35, 55, or 75.
3 Senior-Approved Cosmetic Dental Treatments
These three cosmetic dental treatments would work especially well for those in old age.
Take-Home Teeth Whitening
A dentist can give you a professional-grade teeth whitening kit to use at home. Customized to meet your needs, it would include a strong whitening gel and bleaching trays. Treatment would involve wearing the gel-infused trays for an hour a day over two weeks, resulting in teeth 6-8 shades whiter.
Direct Bonding
Direct bonding uses a tooth-colored resin to cover smile flaws. More specifically, it applies the resin to teeth to hide things like chips, cracks, fractures, etc. From there, a special light hardens this substance to keep it in place.
While the procedure usually takes an hour, it delivers results that can last 5-10 years with proper care. That said, it’s fast, hassle-free, and highly cost-effective.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain layers that dentists apply to the front surfaces of teeth. They cover dental imperfections like fractures, chips, stains, and more. Personalized to match your tooth enamel, the porcelain blends with surrounding teeth and looks very lifelike.
On average, veneer placement takes place in two appointments. When well-maintained, they can last over twenty years.
Cosmetic dentistry isn’t just for the young — it’s also for the old who are young at heart! Talk to your dentist about possible treatment options that would work for you and your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Robert A. Whitmore is a dentist based in Arlington, TX, having earned his DDS at the Baylor School of Dentistry. He’s also been an active board member with Dental Health Arlington, a non-profit that provides low-income residents with essential dental services. He provides preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry to his patients. He currently practices at his self-titled clinic and can be reached at his website or by phone at (817)-468-1212.