Why Your Teeth Age Faster Than Your Skin − And What to Do About It

You moisturize, you wear sunscreen when you go outdoors, and you have maybe even invested in some of the pricier anti-aging skincare products over the years, but what about your teeth? 

It might surprise you to learn that teeth often show signs of aging faster than the skin does, even when you’re overall in good health. Knowing why this happens and learning how a trusted Logan dentist can help can make a big difference in protecting your smile in the long run.

Why Do Our Teeth Age So Quickly?

Unlike our skin, tooth enamel doesn’t actually regenerate. Once it wears down, it’s gone. Over time, the everyday habits we don’t give a second thought to can start to take a toll. 

Here are some examples:

• Our teeth face acid exposure from coffee, soda, wine, and citrus
• You may notice some teeth grinding (or bruxism), often caused by stress or sleep issues
• Your normal chewing and biting forces start adding up over the years
• Dry mouth (sometimes caused by medications) reduces your saliva’s ability to protect your tooth enamel

While our skin can repair itself, our enamel thins year after year. This makes our teeth much more vulnerable to chipping, cracking, and even discoloration.

Hidden Aging Effects You Might Not Even Notice

Dental aging isn’t always obvious at first glance. Here are some of the earlier signs you might (or might not) notice.

• Your teeth appear shorter or flatter
• There’s increased yellowing as the enamel thins and the dentin shows through
• Your teeth become more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet food and drink
• You notice small cracks or rough edges

Your skilled Logan dentist can often spot these signs early on and before they turn into larger and much more expensive problems down the road.

It's Time to Protect Your Smile

So, how can you protect your smile? You can slow down dental aging at any stage of your life. 

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques
• Rinse your mouth out after acidic foods or drinks
• Ask your dentist about fluoride treatments or enamel-strengthening options
• Use a custom mouth guard at night for teeth grinding
• Keep up with all of your routine exams and cleanings

Making a few proactive changes as we described can help you preserve enamel, maintain strength, and keep your teeth looking youthful for many more years to come. It often just comes down to a little simple and preventive care.