Ask an Expert – Do our Teeth Age?

Question: Do our teeth age?

Dr. Sandy Tang, Orthodontist, gives her answer…

As we get older our teeth and gums inevitably age too. Symptoms of aging include darkening of teeth, receding gums, and sensitivity to cold foods and liquids. Because this happens gradually, the signs are often missed before it’s too late. However, the health of your mouth depends on taking preventive measures to minimize the effects of aging.

Mechanical wear and tear

Bruxism is common condition that causes severe wear and tear on the teeth due to grinding and clenching of the jaw. This makes the teeth more susceptible to fractures and wearing a night guard while sleeping is recommended. People who suffer from bruxism should also avoid biting down on very hard or pitted foods such as bones and ice cubes.

Acid erosion

Acid from a variety of foods can eat away at the enamel on the surface of teeth creating tiny pits that promote tooth decay. To reduce acid erosion, go easy on sugary foods, especially carbonated soft drinks and sports drinks, and avoid snacking frequent. Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day will reduce bacteria build up in your mouth. You should also see your dentist every six months for a regular checkup and removal of oral bacteria reservoirs—tartar and dental plaque

Gums and supporting tissue

So teeth are strong enough to withstand the force required from chewing, healthy gums and bone should cover the neck – where the crown meets the root – and whole root of each tooth. There are two major contributing factors for the breakdown of the supporting tissue around your teeth: chronic infection caused by bacteria and excessive levels of force.

For the former, removing dental plaque is the most effective way to eliminate bacterial infection. For the latter, wearing corrective braces aligns the upper and lower teeth to fit properly, so biting force is evenly distributed among all the teeth. This coordination helps the teeth protect each other over the long-term.

Straight teeth

Your teeth are constantly shifting upward and forward as you age. Brushing and flossing to clean recesses between crooked teeth is not always successful, resulting in the buildup of tartar and bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. The most effective solution is to straighten your teeth with corrective braces as early in life as possible, but it is never be too late to start the treatment. For those who have already had braces, don’t forget to wear a retainer at night to keep your pearly white in perfect alignment.

References:

Carpenter, G., et al. “Composition of enamel pellicle from dental erosion patients.” Caries Res. 2014 Mar 6; 48(5): 361-367.

Chiapinotto, F. “Risk factors for gingivitis in a group of Brazilian schoolchildren.” J Public Health Dent. 2013 Winter; 73(1): 9-17.

Paesani, D, et al. “Reliability of multiple-degree incisal/occlusal tooth wear assessment on dental casts: Findings from a five examiner investigation and related clinical implications.” Quintessence Int. 2014 Mar; 45(3): 259-64.