Sorry if this bursts your bubble, but there is no magic elixir or fountain of youth for your teeth. If this newsflash ruins your day, we apologize. The good news, however, is that by understanding how teeth change with age, you can better take care of them. It is possible to keep your teeth healthy and vibrant even as you progress through adulthood and the elderly stages of life.
Here are 5 ways your teeth change with age. More Cavities Cavities increase the older you get. This is because the acids in your mouth – which are what typically cause cavities – proliferate. The more acid there is in your mouth, the more susceptible your teeth are to problems. Less Enamel Think about it like this: your teeth are exposed bones. These bones come in contact with sugary and abrasive foods and beverages day after day, year after year, decade after decade. Over time the enamel – the protective layer that protects your teeth – is bound to wear down. This means that regular checkups and strong oral hygiene are more important than ever. Less Rigidity The roots that hold your teeth in place also degenerate with time. This results in loose teeth. Have you ever noticed how the elderly are prone to tooth loss and often need dentures? This is because rigidity decreases and teeth no longer are firmly secured in place. More Gum Recession As you age, your gums begin to recede. Your jawbone also begins to shrink. The combination of these factors causes gum sensitivity and may also expose tooth roots. Exposed roots can lead to a myriad of other problems, such as tooth loss and cavities. More Tooth Discolouration The onset of age causes teeth to yellow and discolour. This occurs because dentin, the inner part of the tooth, thickens and darkens with time. This discolouration is only worsened by repetitive exposure to staining products such as coffee, teas, sugars, tobacco, and sodas. When you think about it, you encounter a lot of these items over the decades; it is no wonder your teeth lose their pearly sheen. As you can see, the changes that naturally occur to your teeth as you age are all negative changes. That is why it is imperative that you see a dentist on a regular basis. Your dentist can both thwart negative changes and give you preventive treatment for a positive change. For great dental care, contact Forest Lawn Dental Centre today.