Turn back the clock by practicing these seven tricks for a more youthful smile.
Did you know that your teeth can say a lot about your age? Aging can have a noticeable impact on your smile, and as you get older the appearance of your teeth and gums can add years to your chronological age.
Aging teeth are typically darker and duller than younger teeth, and weak, receding gums give the lips less support, which can also make you look older. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to turn back the clock and fight visible signs of aging. Here are our tips to keep your smile looking young and fresh.
7 Ways to Keep A Bright and Youthful Smile
- Avoid Foods and Drinks that Stain
Discoloration is the most common, and most visible, sign of aging teeth. Your tooth enamel thins as you age and exposes more of the grayish or yellowish dentin beneath the surface, which can make you look older. Also, exposed dentin is more susceptible to stains. When trying to decide whether or not something will stain your teeth, remember this rule of thumb: “If it’ll stain your carpet, it’ll stain your teeth.” In general, try to avoid coffee, red wine, dark sodas, and dark berries.
- Closely Monitor Your Gums
Receding gums are another tell-tale sign of aging. Your bones naturally become less dense as you get older and reduced bone density in the jaw can cause receding gums. Gum recession is a gradual process that can have many different causes, from gingivitis to years of aggressive brushing. If you tend to have a heavy hand, try holding a traditional toothbrush with just your fingertips or switch to an electric toothbrush. A softer touch will help keep your gums tight and strong.
- Straighten Your Teeth
Over time, your teeth can collapse inward and make you look older. Braces can help shift your teeth back to their original position, realign turned teeth, and improve dental issues like TMJ or crowding. Straightening your teeth also makes it easier to show off the broadness of your smile, and nothing makes you look more youthful than a strong, confident smile. If you’re not comfortable getting metal braces as an adult, ask your dentist about Invisalign for a more subtle alternative.
- Whiten Your Teeth
Whitening your teeth a few shades can also make you look a few years younger. The key is to choose the whitening treatment that’s best for you. If your teeth and gums are healthy, an over-the-counter whitening treatment should do the trick. If you have multiple fillings, sensitive teeth, or teeth that just aren’t as strong as they used to be, it’s best to get a professional whitening treatment. A dental professional will make sure you get whitening results you’ll love without damaging your teeth.
- Choose The Right Lip Color
Sometimes a little makeup is all it takes to turn back the clock! The right shade of lipstick can make your smile look brighter and younger, while the wrong shade can draw out yellow tones and make your smile look duller and older. Opt for lipstick shades with cool blue undertones and avoid shades that are frosted or too dark. We recommend Fenty Beauty’s Mattemoiselle Plush Matte Lipstick in “Royal Red,” the Nars Audacious Lipstick in “Rita,” and MAC’s cult-classic shade “Ruby Woo.”
- Swap Out Old Fillings
Did you know that what’s inside your teeth can age you as well? Metal crowns or silver fillings are two classic signs of an aging smile. Luckily, all you have to do to look younger is swap out your old metal fillings for new ones. Most crowns today don’t use metal at all and tooth-colored fillings are better and more sustainable than metal ones. Talk to your dentist about your options!
- Consider Getting Veneers
If you’re unhappy with multiple aspects of your smile, veneers are an excellent option. Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that bond to your original teeth, and they can correct the shape, size, positioning, and color of your teeth. Veneers can be expensive, but you’ll be happy with your bright and youthful smile for the next ten to 20 years.
The Espire Difference
At Espire Dental, we want you to look and feel your best at any age. With good dental hygiene, routine cleanings, and a professional whitening treatment if you choose, you can fight back against the tell-tale signs of aging.
To keep your gums healthy and your smile bright, contact us today for an appointment! Our dental hygienists will make you feel right at home and offer you a luxurious, anxiety-free dental experience.