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Posted on 8/20/2016 by Dr. Kelsey Ullsmith |
 As you get older, things change. You may notice some physical changes, such as graying hair and a few wrinkles on the face. Perhaps you have slowed down a little. Your health changes too. You become more prone to certain illnesses and you find yourself visiting several doctors. The dentist should be on that list as well. As you age, your teeth change, and their health should not be neglected. Worn EnamelYour teeth have seen a lot of use. After years of chewing, especially on hard foods, edges flatten. Your enamel also wears away, exposing dentin, where hollow canals that lead to the roots of your teeth live. Exposure to acidic foods - citrus, coffee and tea for example - also eat away at the enamel. This can lead to tooth sensitivity as well as an increased risk of tooth decay. Receding GumsYour gums naturally recede over time as you get older. In doing so, the roots of your teeth become exposed. This greatly increases your chances of both gum disease and tooth decay. Not only that, but it can lead to loose teeth that are liable to fall out. Dry MouthAs you get older, you may find yourself on any number of medications. Some of these medications can cause dry mouth. Saliva is the mouth's natural defense against bacteria, so having a dry mouth creates the perfect environment for bacteria to live. Can Indicate Other Health IssuesYour mouth can also give clues as to the rest of your health. Aging makes you more vulnerable to issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Early indicators can actually be found in the mouth. Visit the Dentist RegularlyMaking regular visits to your dentist is just as important now as it was in your younger years. In doing so, you can assure that your teeth stay as healthy as possible. Getting older doesn't have to mean you wind up with dentures. Your teeth will naturally change, just as the rest of you will, but taking good care of them and regularly visiting your dentist can assure you stay healthy. Please contact us if you have any questions about aging teeth. |
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