Our teeth, just like our skin, muscles, and bones, age over time. Most people think that teeth can only decay or yellow. However, structural wear, malocclusion, jaw joint problems, and changes in facial shape are also among the effects of aging.
In this article, we will discuss the aging process of teeth and its aesthetic and functional effects in detail, focusing on the concept of Facelift Dentistry.
🦷 What Happens When Teeth Age?
Teeth change over time not only functionally but also aesthetically.
With the aging process:
•Tooth length becomes shorter,
•Erosion and color changes are observed in the enamel,
•Gum recession begins,
•Jaw bone density decreases.
These changes become more apparent especially after the age of 40:
•Upper teeth become less visible and lower teeth become more visible.
•A shadow known as the “Chinese moustache” forms on the edge of the upper lip.
•The appearance of “flesh collapse” begins on the cheeks of the face.
•Lip support decreases, corners of the mouth turn downward.
•The lines between the nose and lips (nasolabial lines) deepen.
These changes make the face look tired, sunken and older than it is.
🏛 How Does Our Skeletal System Get Affected When Teeth Age?
When teeth become shorter, lower face height (vertical dimension) decreases. This situation:
•The tip of the chin moves upwards,
•The lips appear thin and sunken,
•Nasolabial lines become more prominent,
•It causes sagging in the neck area and deterioration of the jaw line.
In other words, not only the smile but also the entire face is negatively affected by this change.
📏 What is Vertical Size Enhancement?
Vertical dimension augmentation is the process of restoring the lower facial height to its ideal state by restoring worn or short teeth.
This process:
•Renews the aesthetic appearance,
•Restores chewing function,
•Protects jaw joint health.
💎 What is Facelift Dentistry?
Facelift Dentistry® is an innovative concept that addresses dental aesthetics, functional occlusion and facial form as a whole.
The goal is not just to create beautiful teeth; it is to help the patient achieve a younger, healthier and more balanced facial appearance.
Cerrahi yüz germe işlemlerinden farklı olarak tamamen diş restorasyonlarıyla elde edilir.
⚙️ Materials Used in Treatment
In vertical dimension enhancement and facelift dentistry applications:
•Zirconia (durable and natural appearance),
•E-max porcelain (especially aesthetic in front teeth),
•Composite resins (temporary and short-term restorations),
•Lithium disilicate ceramics (high aesthetics and durability)
applications.
Material selection is determined by the patient's jaw structure, closure and aesthetic expectations.
📸 3D Scanners and Digital Planning
Thanks to modern 3D scanners:
•Current tooth length and position are measured,
•A new closing height compatible with the face is planned,
•The post-treatment appearance is shown in advance with simulation.
This technology both increases patient comfort and minimizes the margin of error in laboratory studies.
😬 The Connection Between Clenching Teeth and Aging
Bruxism (teeth grinding) causes rapid wear of teeth, shortening of tooth length and decrease in vertical dimension.
This causes the face to appear older. Treatment both stops the wear and tear and restores lost height.
🕒 How Long Does This Treatment Last?
This personalized change can be completed in approximately two weeks to two months.
Duration may vary depending on gum health, existing tooth structure, missing teeth, or the need for additional surgery.
Treatment is provided through three main stages:
1.Taking digital measurements,
2. Application of temporary restoration – the patient gets used to the new size,
3.Placement of permanent porcelain and final checks.
🌟 Benefits to the Patient
•Younger, more balanced facial features,
•Ideal lower face height,
•Reduced load on the jaw joint,
•Aesthetic and symmetrical smile,
•Reduction of pain due to teeth clenching,
•Better chewing function.
⏳ Adaptation Period
It may take a few days to a week to adjust to the new closing height.
The temporary restoration period allows you to go through this process comfortably.
🛡 To Prevent Aging of Teeth
•Using a night guard,
•Be careful with hard foods,
•Stay away from acidic drinks,
•Regular dental check-ups
•Regular brushing and flossing.
✨ Result
Teeth affect not only our smile but also our entire facial form and skeletal structure.
With Facelift Dentistry, it is possible to gain both a more youthful appearance and a functional chewing pattern.
If you experience signs of aging, such as shortened teeth, visible lower teeth, “Chinese moustache” and sunken cheeks, especially after the age of 40, this method may be an effective solution for you.