DURING PAST GENERATIONS, chances were very slim that a person could keep his or her healthy, natural teeth over an entire lifetime. Today’s remarkable technologies and advanced materials, coupled with the artistic eyes and training of the entire team here at Dr. Brei’s practice greatly increase the likelihood that you’ll keep your smile for life! Occasionally, when we visit with our valued patients and friends, we recognize that making decisions about dental treatments isn’t easy. To help you feel confident in your dental services decision making, we’ve set up a simple framework below. Of course, the decisions are always YOURS to make. We just want to be sure you have good information.
For purposes of the next several blog posts, we’ve divided “The Lifetime of Your Smile” into four different phases:
- Your 1–20 Year Old Smile
- Your 20–40 Year Old Smile
- Your 40–65 Year Old Smile
- Your 65+ Year Old Smile
In addition to learning about YOUR OWN smile’s current phase, you likely have family members, loved ones, and friends in other phases as well. We invite you to pass the information along!
Must do’s. Should do’s. Could do’s.
Each day—consciously and/or subconsciously—we prioritize decision making in all aspects of our lives through “must do’s,” “should do’s,” and “could do’s.” Here at Robert Brei DDS our goal is to make sure you’re comfortable with the oral health decisions you make, and that you see the difference between the “musts,” the “shoulds,” and the “coulds.” And remember, these lists aren’t exhaustive—and, there are no absolutely right or wrong answers to what YOU must, should, or could be doing about your oral health and appearance. We all have different priorities, wants, and needs. Think of these posts as a starting point! And if you have questions, please contact us and we’ll visit. _______________________________________________________
Today’s Post Is About 65+ Year Old Smiles
THERE ARE NO AGE LIMITS ON FANTASTIC, ENGAGING SMILES! Did you know—for the most part—that losing one’s teeth during the golden years has little to do with aging and a lot to do with gum disease?! Some studies have even begun to link gum disease to other diseases—including heart problems. But you need NOT be a victim. As average life spans increase, it’s an important time to understand your aging smile.
Must do’s.
- As we get older, receding gums can expose roots to cavities and decay. Don’t postpone your regular professional visits with Dr. Brei.
- Some of the dental work in your mouth may be many decades old, increasing the risk of decay setting in around the edges of old fillings or crowns. See Dr. Brei to be sure you aren’t at risk.
Should do’s.
- Today’s dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth. If you’re missing teeth, advanced restorative implants may be the solution for you.
- Boost self confidence. A recent study indicates that nearly 90% of dental implant patients who previously wore dentures say confidence is up, and, the procedure was worth repeating.
Could do’s.
- More and more “seasoned” citizens are keeping their teeth AND beautifying their smiles with cosmetic veneers. It isn’t complicated and there’s very little discomfort. Now you can too.
Here at Dr. Brei’s practice, we want to be your oral health partner for life! Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, if you haven’t already.
Watch for our next blog post to learn about one of the other phases in “The Lifetime of Your Smile”!
And as always, thanks for being our valued patient!
