No matter how diligent you are about dental care, you will probably notice that your smile changes a little bit with age. This article from our Toluca Lake dentists is all about what you can expect to experience as you get older. The good news is that there are treatment solutions available for these very commonly experienced issues. Let’s get started!
Color
Dental enamel, the outermost layer of your tooth, is naturally white. Over time, enamel can take on stains and discoloration. At the same time, enamel becomes thinner as it ages. Because the layer of tooth below the enamel (the dentin) is slightly yellow, your entire tooth can start to look yellow as enamel wears away and dentin shows through. Environmental stains and enamel deterioration both contribute to your smile changing shades.
Sensitivity
The most sensitive part of a tooth is the dental pulp—the innermost tooth layer. This is where you can find the dental nerves that create discomfort. If you are experiencing dental pain, it is because those nerves are too exposed, and thus easily irritated. This may happen because your enamel has thinned, or because your gum tissue has started to pull away from your teeth.
Vulnerability
Additionally, as teeth age they become more susceptible to developing damage—either due to trauma or infection. As dental enamel thins, it becomes a less effective protective barrier against harmful bacteria. Enamel can also develop micro-cracks due to bruxism, and, over time, these small weak spots can become more severe.
If you are noticing any of these issues with your own smile, our Toluca Lake dentists are here to help you tweak your smile and reach your dental goals. The best way to get started is to call our office to schedule a consultation, or use the Contact Us page to reach our team!