4 Teeth Changes to Expect as you Age

When it comes to dental care, it’s important to know how your teeth change as you age. Knowing what to expect can help you stay on top of your dental health and ensure that your teeth stay as healthy as possible!

1. Weakening Enamel

One change to expect when it comes to your teeth includes the weakening of enamel. As you age, enamel can wear down due to chewing, grinding, and acidic drinks. When enamel weakens, it increases the risk of your teeth cracking or breaking. It can also increase the likelihood of cavities. Using toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride, along with brushing and flossing, can reduce the risk of decay by 40%, but you should still be mindful of what you’re eating and seek treatment if you have problems with teeth grinding.

2. Yellowing Teeth

Another change that comes with aging dental care is yellowing. This can be caused by coffee, tea, and tobacco use. While cutting back on these can lower the effects, some yellowing is avoidable. This is because the dentin in your teeth naturally becomes more yellow over time, and as your enamel thins, this layer shows through much more than it did before. One of the best ways to mitigate this is by being mindful of your diet and protecting your enamel by taking steps to help slow weakening.

3. Receding Gums

Another change that comes with age is receding gums. This can expose the roots and necks of your teeth, and it can increase your risk for gum disease and cavities. Proper brushing at this stage is essential, as are regular visits to your dentist. While this problem is often unavoidable, you can help keep your mouth in better shape with the proper dental care.

4. Smaller Nerves

Lastly, the nerves in your teeth can become smaller as you age, which can make you less aware of dental pain. While this may sound like a good thing, it does mean that dental problems, such as cavities, can grow more severe as you’ll be less likely to feel discomfort. To combat this, regular dental visits will be essential so that problems can be detected early and fixed before they become more significant.

Dental care is important no matter what age you are, and it’s important to know the changes to expect as you get older so that you can prepare. The best way to keep your smile healthy is to know what to look for and work with your dentist to ensure that you’re teeth get the best care possible. If it’s time for your regular check up, don’t put it off. To schedule an appointment, please contact us today at (207) 767-3211.