As with the rest of our bodies, our teeth and gums experience change as we age. Teeth suffer wear and tear, while gums can recede due to inflammation or gum disease. These changes can be slowed or even prevented with proper dental care.
Wear and Tear of the Teeth
Teeth experience high levels of pressure when they are used for biting and chewing. This pressure can strain the teeth, leading to eventual wear and tear, erosion, and even cracking and chipping. This type of wear is made worse if you habitually grind or clench your teeth. However, your teeth will not become more brittle as you age, although your nutritional and dental habits can cause your enamel to become weaker.
Teeth can also experience wear and damage due to the kinds of foods you eat and the overall quality of your oral care. If you tend to eat foods that are high in acid, for example, the acid in the food can cause erosion in your enamel, leading to increased sensitivity and damage to the tooth. Eating sweet or sticky foods or drinking sugary beverages increases your risk of tooth decay, which can lead to a need to have your teeth restored or even to eventual tooth loss.
Taking Care of Your Gums over Time
Keeping your gums healthy is also an important part of your dental regimen. The most common problem that develops with the gums is inflammation leading to gingivitis or gum disease. When gums become infected or inflamed, it can eventually cause them to withdraw from the tooth roots. If left untreated, this can lead to tooth loss.
The best way to prevent long-term damage to the teeth and to keep your gums healthy is to maintain a regular oral hygiene routine and visit your dentist regularly. If you brush and floss regularly and visit the dentist about every six months, you are more likely to keep your teeth healthy and intact even as you grow older.
To schedule your six month check-up, contact our experienced dental team by calling 416-922-1012 today.