These changes occur gradually, but some of them may appear at certain age stages.
In this regard, Dr. Sahil Patel, cosmetic dentist and founder of Marylebone Smile Clinic, reveals the major changes that occur in the teeth in every decade of life, from the age of 20 to 60.
The twenties: crowds and the calendar
In the twenties, the face, especially the lower jaw, completes its development. This stage of growth may cause the front teeth to crowd in the lower jaw, making the teeth appear crooked or irregular.
“Crowding in the lower jaw may lead to faster tooth wear,” Patel says. As a result, many people start looking for orthodontic solutions.
This decade also witnesses the appearance of wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth, which may cause pain in the lower jaw, and make some people decide to remove them. If you decide to keep it, you may have difficulty cleaning it well due to its location in the mouth.
30s: Gum problems and teeth grinding
As your 30s begin, life stresses, such as work, family obligations, and perhaps pregnancy, begin to affect your oral health.
Psychological stress may lead to the habit of grinding teeth (bruxism), whether during the day or night, which accelerates tooth wear and makes them appear flat or round.
In addition, hormonal changes resulting from pregnancy may lead to gingivitis, as the gums become more susceptible to bacteria and bleeding.
Patel explains that these changes may make teeth more susceptible to problems, and this may be exacerbated if visits to the dentist are irregular.
40s: Tooth erosion and decreased gum health
In your 40s, you may begin to notice normal tooth wear. These changes may cause your lower teeth to appear larger when smiling or speaking, which is a result of the decline of lip tissue due to aging.
Tooth erosion can also lead to additional problems such as cracked or receding gums, which exposes the teeth to further damage.
If medical intervention is not carried out at this stage, a deterioration in the condition of the teeth may occur, which requires treatment using ceramic fillings to repair the damaged teeth and rebuild the lost structure.
1950s: Yellowing of teeth and difficulty maintaining their natural color
In the 1950s, tooth yellowing becomes more noticeable. These changes are due to the accumulation of pigments from the foods and drinks we consume over the years, in addition to the natural effects of aging on the teeth, such as the decline of the nerve inside the tooth.
“Teeth begin to lose volume and become more crowded, which makes it difficult to clean them well,” Patel explains. The enamel that protects the teeth gradually erodes, making it more difficult to treat yellowing.
At this stage, the use of ceramics or implants is considered one of the most effective solutions to restore the aesthetic appearance of the teeth.
The 1960s: tooth loss and the need for medical intervention
As you reach your 60s, you are more likely to lose some teeth due to continued wear or other health problems.
“Few people reach the age of 60 without needing major medical interventions to maintain their teeth,” Patel says.
At this stage, some may need to have dentures or implants installed to maintain dental health and function, but you must be careful because dentures require constant maintenance and may affect the quality of daily life.
Source: The Sun
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How does dental health typically change in the forties, and what proactive steps can individuals take to address these changes?
**Interview with Dr. Sahil Patel: Understanding Dental Changes Through the Decades**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Patel. Let’s delve into how our teeth change as we age. Starting with our twenties, what should people be aware of regarding their dental health?
**Dr. Patel:** In the twenties, we often see individuals experiencing crowding of the front teeth, especially in the lower jaw. This is a result of the facial growth completing its development. Crowding can lead to faster tooth wear, which is why many people begin to consider orthodontic treatments. Additionally, wisdom teeth tend to emerge during this decade, and they can pose cleaning challenges as well as discomfort.
**Editor:** Interesting! Moving into our thirties, what dental issues become prevalent?
**Dr. Patel:** The thirties bring about a range of stresses that can impact oral health. One common issue is bruxism or teeth grinding, which can result from increased life pressures. This often leads to worn-down teeth, making them appear flatter. Additionally, hormonal changes—especially those related to pregnancy—can heighten the risk of gingivitis, making regular dental check-ups even more crucial.
**Editor:** This is particularly enlightening. What can we expect in our forties?
**Dr. Patel:** In your forties, normal tooth wear becomes noticeable, and you may see aesthetic changes like larger-looking lower teeth due to decreased lip fullness. Tooth erosion is also common, potentially leading to cracked or receding gums. If not addressed, these issues could necessitate more extensive treatments, such as ceramic fillings, to restore the teeth’s structure.
**Editor:** And as we approach our fifties and sixties, what significant changes do we observe?
**Dr. Patel:** Well, by the fifties, many individuals start to experience tooth yellowing and increased tooth sensitivity. Receding gums can exacerbate these issues, leaving teeth more vulnerable to decay. By the sixties, maintaining oral hygiene becomes extremely important as the risk for various dental problems escalates. Regular dental visits and good home care practices are vital at this stage.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Patel, for sharing your insights on these important dental changes throughout life’s decades. Your expertise sheds light on how to proactively manage oral health through each stage of life.
**Dr. Patel:** Thank you for having me. It’s essential to understand and address these changes as they arise to maintain optimal dental health!
