Why Your Bite May Change As You Age

As we grow older, changes in our body are inevitable, and your smile is no exception. One often-overlooked aspect of oral health is the alignment of your bite. If you’ve noticed that your teeth don’t fit together the way they used to, you’re not alone. At Smiles by Seese in Davidson, we’re here to help you understand why your bite may change as you age and what you can do to protect your oral health.

1. Natural Wear and Tear on Teeth

Over the years, your teeth endure a lot of pressure from chewing, grinding, and daily use. This natural wear can gradually alter the shape of your teeth, leading to changes in how they come together.

• Enamel Erosion: The protective outer layer of your teeth, enamel, can wear down over time, causing teeth to shift or flatten.
• Uneven Surfaces: Teeth that are worn unevenly can disrupt the balance of your bite, leading to discomfort and alignment issues.

2. Gum Recession and Bone Loss

Gum recession, a common condition as we age, can expose the roots of your teeth and affect their stability. Additionally, bone loss in the jaw can cause teeth to shift, altering your bite alignment.

• Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) is a leading cause of gum recession and bone loss. According to the CDC, nearly 70% of adults aged 65 or older have gum disease, highlighting its prevalence in older populations.
• Tooth Mobility: As gums recede and bone density decreases, teeth may become loose and shift position, further impacting your bite.

3. Tooth Loss and Missing Teeth

Losing a tooth doesn’t just leave a gap in your smile—it can also disrupt your bite. When a tooth is missing, neighboring teeth may drift into the empty space, while opposing teeth can move out of alignment.

• Impact on Jawbone: Tooth loss also leads to jawbone deterioration, which can cause bite changes and even facial structure alterations.
• Restoration Importance: Replacing missing teeth with dental implants, bridges, or dentures can prevent these shifts and preserve your bite.

4. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Many adults experience bruxism, or teeth grinding, often without realizing it. This condition can wear down teeth and affect your bite over time.

• Stress Factor: Stress is a significant trigger for bruxism, and its effects on your teeth can accumulate over the years.
• Night Guards: Custom night guards can protect your teeth from further wear and help maintain a healthy bite.

5. Changes in Jaw Alignment

As you age, the muscles and joints in your jaw may weaken or become misaligned, affecting how your teeth fit together.

• TMJ Disorders: Issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can lead to bite changes, jaw pain, and difficulty chewing.
• Age-Related Shifts: Natural changes in muscle tone and joint function can subtly alter your bite alignment over time.

6. Dental Work and Restorations

Previous dental work, such as fillings, crowns, or bridges, can wear down or shift over time, potentially affecting your bite. Regular dental checkups are essential to ensure that restorations are still functioning properly and not causing alignment issues.

How to Address Bite Changes

If you notice changes in your bite, it’s important to take action to protect your oral health and prevent further complications. Here’s how Smiles by Seese can help:

• Comprehensive Exams: We’ll evaluate your teeth, gums, and jaw alignment to determine the cause of your bite changes.
• Restorative Solutions: From replacing missing teeth to repairing worn enamel, we offer customized treatments to restore your smile.
• Orthodontic Options: For significant bite changes, orthodontic treatments like Invisalign can realign your teeth and improve function.
• Preventive Care: Regular cleanings and checkups are key to catching and addressing issues early.

Protect Your Smile at Smiles by Seese in Davidson

Your bite plays a crucial role in your overall oral health, and changes over time can lead to discomfort or more serious dental issues. At Smiles by Seese, we’re dedicated to providing personalized care to keep your smile healthy and functional at every stage of life.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let our team help you maintain a healthy, confident smile for years to come!