Looking back, it’s easy to cringe at some of your younger self’s health habits: gorging on pizza, candy, and sodas. Treating our bodies kindly becomes much more important as we age. Your teeth also require additional care as they age. It’s essential to maintain the best possible oral health so you can keep your teeth healthy for years to come. Here’s what to expect as your teeth change with age.

• Older teeth begin to show signs of wear and tear. Even the strongest teeth begin to wear down over time. Think about how often you use your teeth to grind, tear and chew. Even when having a cup of coffee, your teeth are part of the experience. Acidity from food and beverages can weaken the enamel over time, causing potential problems down the line. It’s important to remember not to chew ice, hard candies or other foods that might chip or break teeth. You’ll also want to talk to your dentist if a poor bite or nighttime teeth grinding is impacting your oral health. The fix could be as simple as wearing a retainer at night.

• Cavities and gum issues become more commonplace. While regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups can stave off problems, these healthy habits need to be maintained. Getting lax about your oral care routine is more likely to result in cavities and gum issues than it did in your youth (when you often “forgot” to brush your teeth during a sleepover at a friend’s house). Your gums also recede with age, exposing soft root tissues that can decay without proper care.

• Pearly whites tend to lose come of their sparkle. Years of consuming coffee, sodas and tea can add up. The dentin inside the tooth enamel will begin to yellow as your mouth ages, and it can show through over time. The other thing to note is that the whitening products that line your local drugstore are likely to be less effective on older teeth. These products will lift surface stains, but don’t expect the results to be as dramatic as they would be on younger teeth. Some bleaching procedures can cause increased sensitivity (something that can also be a problem with older teeth), so check with your dentist about the best way to brighten a dulled smile.

• Diligent oral care routines can short circuit potential problems. You probably already guessed this one, but it’s worth repeating: Old age is not the time to get lazy about taking care of your teeth. If you want to maintain a healthy mouth in your golden years, it’s important to be diligent about brushing, flossing, fluoride and biannual checkups. Your dentist will have additional ideas and tips for keeping your unique mouth as youthful as ever. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your smile is worth it!

Remember that regular dental cleanings are the best way to supplement good dental habits throughout your life. They’re important for the whole family—especially as children are developing the habits they’ll take with them into adulthood and old age. To find out the latest and best information about your family’s specific needs, talk to the dental professionals at TenderCare Dental in Tigard. Our team can help you determine what procedures to schedule and how to maintain good oral health outside the office.