FOR PEOPLE BELONGING TO GENERATIONS PAST, chances were slim that somebody could keep their healthy, natural teeth over their entire lifetime. Fortunately, today’s remarkable technologies and advanced materials, coupled with Dr. Brei’s artistic eye and extensive training greatly increase the likelihood that you’ll keep your smile for life! Sometimes, when we visit with our valued patients and friends, we recognize that making decisions about various treatments isn’t easy. There are a lot of choices. To help you better understand dental service decision making, we’ve set up a simple little framework explained below. It’s our hope that this will help bring additional clarity to your decision making. Of course, we know every decision is yours to make. We just want to be sure you have good information.
For purposes of the last and next blog posts, we’ve divided “The Lifetime of Your Smile” into four 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 understanding your smile’s current phase, you probably have family members and friends who are in the other phases as well. We invite you to pass the information along!
Must do. Should do. Could do.
Each day—consciously and subconsciously—we prioritize decision making in all aspects of our lives by “must do’s,” “should do’s,” and “could do’s.” Our goal is to make sure you’re comfortable with every oral health decision you make, and that you see the difference between the “musts,” the “shoulds,” and the “coulds.” Of course, we aren’t listing everything—and, there are no absolutely right or wrong answers to what you must, should, or could be doing about your oral health and appearance. Everyone has different priorities and different wants and needs. Think of these posts as a starting point! And if you have questions, don’t hesitate to let us know so we can explain anything further. _______________________________________________________
Today’s Post Is About Your 40–65 Year Old Smile
THE BEST PART OF LIFE IS JUST STARTING! It’s such a great time in history to be this age. And don’t forget, as science continues to prove, the crucial role proper dental care plays in your overall health and appearance. So eat right, exercise, enjoy yourself along the way, and flash that gorgeous smile more often!
Must do.
- It’s estimated that up to 3/4 of adults over age 35 have some degree of gum disease. Work with your dentist to be sure you don’t.
- 63% of “boomers” with an oral health problem considered to be an indication of a more serious problem, are unaware of the connection. Don’t skip your regular check ups.
Should do.
- You probably still have silver mercury amalgam fillings, placed when you were a teen. Not only are they unsightly and can damage tooth structure, but some believe they may present other disadvantages. Work with your dentist to systematically replace them with greatly-improved, durable white composite fillings.
- Half your life lies ahead. You remodeled your home after a few decades—it’s time to remodel your smile. Dr. Brei provides “upgrades” that will allow you to keep your teeth for rest of your life.
Could do.
- Well beyond botox, breast implants, and viagra… Nothing makes you look and feel younger than a beautiful smile. It’s a fact. Today’s whitening treatments—often combined with one of many porcelain veneer options—can create a personal smile makeover that is truly your “fountain of youth.”
Our entire team wants to be your oral health partners for life! Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, if you haven’t already.