Millions across the globe seek cosmetic dentistry to improve the appearance of their teeth, gums, and or smile. Cosmetic dentists, commonly referred to as Prosthodontists and Orthodontists, do a variety of dental work that all fit into what is known as “cosmetic dentistry”. But, at what age should you opt, or more importantly, not opt for cosmetic dentistry? Is there a limit to when you should seek this kind of treatment?
What is cosmetic dentistry?
In comparison to general dental treatment, cosmetic dentistry concerns treatments that are predominantly concerned with improving the aesthetics of the smile. This may include, but is not limited to, the addition of material to teeth or gums (such as crowns and gum grafts), the removal of teeth, teeth whitening, and the straightening of teeth through the use of teeth braces. Often, combinations of these procedures are used to obtain the best results.
The Effects of Media
Media tends to place a grand focus on appearance. Snap shots are seen in magazines and on billboards everywhere. No matter who is depicted on the image, they are always shown with a beautiful smile and dazzling white teeth. For this reason, many seek cosmetic dentistry to enhance the appearance of their smile and teeth. Others seek cosmetic dentistry because of teeth decaying and other health related reasons.
How old should you be?
The age in which one should seek cosmetic dentistry varies. Usually, with elderly people, tooth loss is a leading problem. Solutions are available for having missing teeth replaced, such as dental implants and dental bridges or crowns. Before, people tended to get braces while they were young. However, today, older people seek braces to improve their smile, a smile that they did not get a chance to improve while they were young. Teeth whitening use to be predominantly for older people.
It doesn’t matter how old you are
Today, people of all ages seek the benefit of getting their teeth whitened, especially right after braces are removed. The same goes for many other forms of cosmetic dentistry. People of all ages find themselves looking for ways to benefit from cosmetic work. Even though cosmetic dentist often warn parents of the disadvantages of allowing their children to receive cosmetic work at a very young age, as age increases, the disadvantages of this type of work decreases. Therefore, one can never be too old for cosmetic dentistry.
It comes down to your current state of health
The only concern with cosmetic work that dentist seem to have is the physical state in which the patient is in. Some, because of health reasons, are warned that receiving cosmetic work could worsen their health condition. For most procedures, the patient must have healthy gums, good oral hygiene, no bleeding disorders, Healthy adjacent teeth, and healthy and sufficient bone below the gums. If all of these requirements are met, typically any patient can reap the benefits of cosmetic work.
Richard is a freelance writer who produces content on cosmetic dentistry, general health and technology. Visit him on Twitter at @thefreshhealth.
I was just talking to my grandma about it yesterday. She thinks she’s too old to get a white beautiful smile, but I was telling her that you are never too old for that! I am going to share this with her. It’s great to know that everyone can have that beautiful Hollywood smile, regardless of age.
I agree 100%! You’re never too old to try and improve your smile. I’ve always believed that having a great smile was the secret to having confidence. Thank you, though, for explaining that your state of health is important if you want to get dental work! I’m going to send this post to my grandma; she’s been complaining about her teeth for years.