Time waits for none; it passes you by in the blink of the eye. And this includes the health, position and shape of our teeth. Just like ageing changes the body, it changes our smile as well. Throughout lifetime, teeth get exposed to physical and chemical impacts that results in the wear and tear of the dental tissues. Age related wear and tear of the teeth causes the enamel to deteriorate exposing the deeper layers of enamel which typically has different physical and chemical properties than the surface enamel.
It is important to know about these changes so that we can take proper care and slow down the ageing process of our teeth. While some changes in our teeth are determined by the oral care we take throughout the years, there are a few other natural changes we must adapt to.
Position of the teeth changes
As we age, ligaments, bones and gum tissues begin to weaken causing the teeth to shift. Generally, the lower teeth begin to shift and this causes the lower teeth to bump against the upper teeth when chewing. This may cause the teeth enamel to wear away resulting the upper teeth to shift forward.
Colour of the teeth changes
As we age, teeth enamel gets worn out and becomes thinner. This exposes the dentin underneath which has a yellowish hue. This might cause the teeth to appear discoloured as we age. Teeth begins to create more dentin as we age, and this also causes the teeth to have a darker shade.
Changes in gums
Receding gums are a common problem. As we age, gums naturally become thinner and regress from the teeth over a period of time. Changes happen in the production of saliva which also contributes to changes in gum line. Being susceptible to gum disease like gingivitis and periodontal disease may also lead to decline in the health of gums.
Loss of jawbone
Did you know your facial bones change continuously throughout your life? Due to ageing, density of our bone structure deteriorates and becomes vulnerable to cracks. Also as we age, due to the loss of permanent teeth, the jawbone begins to weaken. Lower jaw in particular impacts the way teeth shift. Also changes in jaw will change the way we bite, or the way the top and bottom row of the teeth come together. This causes pressure and eventually causes the upper teeth to develop gaps.
Tissues, bones and nerves get weak
As we age, cells renew at a slower rate, tissues become thinner and bones become less dense. These changes affect the tissues and bones in the mouth which may increase the risk of oral problems. The nerves located in the center of the tooth becomes weak as we age. Weak nerves may not be able to provide alert when there is an oral problem.
Enamel gets weak
Teeth are strong, but not indestructible. A lifetime of gnawing, chewing and grinding will wear away the outer layer of the teeth’s enamel and expose the dentin.
TAKING CARE OF AGEING TEETH
- Brush, Floss and Rinse every day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Choose Toothpaste and Mouthwash with ingredients that would support and augment oral health. Dente91 toothpaste is the first-of-its-kind toothpaste in India that offers the power benefits of two unique ingredients; Nano Hydroxyapatite and Lactoferrin to support oral health. Dente91 Mouthwash is an alcohol-free cool mint flavoured mouthwash enriched with Lactoferrin to ensure healthy teeth and gums. It is also free from fluoride, detergent and sugar.
- Limit the intake of sugary and starchy food. Just like the other organs in the body, our teeth also need a healthy diet.
- Use teeth whitening products that does not damage teeth over time. Dente91 Anti-Stain Expert Toothpaste is created with a break through formula powered with SHMP to reduce teeth stains and Covarine Blue to improve whitening.
- Avoid smoking and tobacco products.
- Regular examinations of the oral cavity along with early preventive measures help the teeth to remain strong at old age.
Reference:
Age-related morphological, histological and functional changes in teeth, https://doi.org/10.1111/joor.12474