Life expectancy is far better than it used to be. We’re living about three decades longer than previous generations – and that means we want our teeth to stick around for the long haul too. It used to be that when people reached a certain age they resigned themselves to a future of dentures. While some people do use dentures successfully – and this option has come a long way in recent years as a smile solution – there are other cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry solutions that are permanent and just as life-changing, making those extra years you have to live far more fun and carefree.
Baby Boomers in particular are a unique demographic. Unlike the generation before them, Boomers are more likely to maintain their own teeth far into adulthood. And that’s a good thing, because it means they have the opportunity to take advantage of a great deal of smile makeover options. However, Baby Boomers are also from an era before municipal fluoridation was widespread, so while they may have all their teeth, many of them are likely riddled with old dental work that may require maintenance or upgrading.
Many Baby Boomers are no doubt experiencing health problems that can affect their oral health, most notably the condition of their gums. Dry mouth can occur because of aging but also as a side effect of certain medications or treatments. And a dry mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria and, thus, cavities or periodontal disease. Sensitivity is a big issue for Boomers, particularly those who have long been aggressive when brushing their teeth, leading to receding gums or worn-down tooth enamel.
There are plenty of reasons that you’re never too old (or too young, for that matter) to say yes to a smile makeover. Here are just some of them:
You’re still working. Sure, plenty of Baby Boomers are ready to retire. But some still have to work, and others simply want to keep working because they enjoy their vocation. That doesn’t mean you aren’t competing with the younger set who has everything going for them, including good teeth. Invest in your own smile and you will enhance your professional potential tenfold.
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You’re dating. Baby Boomers are the demographic behind the graying divorce movement. Which means plenty of Boomers are online and on smartphones, playing the field and looking for love. A smile is incredibly important when it comes to first impressions, and if you have the grin that makes you feel years younger than you actually are, you’ll be more inclined to act that way too. And your date will notice. The confidence you gain from a smile makeover can enhance your love life tremendously.
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You don’t want plastic surgery. If only there was a way to just plump up your lips a little – a solution that lasts longer than one night’s “lip venom.” Porcelain veneers can boost your lips while also reducing some of the fine lines and wrinkles around your mouth. You don’t have to go under the knife (or injectable needle) to get the kind of long-lasting results you envision.
You want to look natural. There was once a time when a toothache meant the tooth would be pulled. If it comes to that today, you won’t have to suffer with a gap in your smile or realize the effects that a missing tooth can have on the shape of your face. Dental implants are a widely used and popular permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. They look at function like natural teeth.
You want to age gracefully. If you’re a Baby Boomer, you’ve reached the decade when you want to embrace the second adulthood you have ahead of you. And you can’t enjoy those delicious foods and tempting social events when you’re hiding out because of a broken-down smile. Cosmetic dentistry is the anti-aging secret, the weapon of choice in the smart Baby Boomer’s arsenal.
Baby Boomers find themselves on the cusp of an exciting future – they have plenty of years ahead of them, including plenty of leisure years, and they want a smile that goes with the plans they’ve made for themselves. Make an appointment to schedule your consultation with Manhattan cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael J. Wei to discuss your smile makeover options.
