How Aging Affects Your Bite and What You Can Do About It

As we age, our teeth and bite can change in ways that impact comfort, function, and appearance. At Riverwood Dental in Atlanta, we see many patients who are surprised to learn that aging can lead to shifting teeth, bite misalignment, and other oral health issues. The good news? With modern dental solutions, you don’t have to let these changes affect your quality of life.

Why Does Your Bite Change Over Time?

Several factors contribute to bite changes as we age, including:

1. Tooth Wear
   Years of chewing, grinding, and exposure to acidic foods can wear down enamel, altering the way your teeth fit together. Flat or worn teeth can create gaps, leading to misalignment.
2. Gum Recession
   As gums recede with age, the roots of teeth may become exposed, creating sensitivity and changing the balance of your bite.
3. Tooth Loss
   Missing teeth disrupt the natural alignment of your bite, causing remaining teeth to shift. This can lead to jaw discomfort and difficulty chewing.
4. Bone Density Loss
   The jawbone naturally loses density over time, especially in areas where teeth are missing. This can further contribute to shifting teeth and bite instability.

Signs Your Bite May Be Changing

It’s not always obvious when your bite has shifted, but watch for these signs:

• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Jaw pain or clicking sounds
• Teeth that look shorter or flatter
• Gaps or crowding where there weren’t any before

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, Riverwood Dental can help.

How Riverwood Dental Addresses Bite Changes

1. Comprehensive Bite Assessment
   Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate your bite and identify the root causes of any misalignment.
2. Restorative Dentistry
   Treatments like crowns, bridges, or dental implants can replace missing or worn teeth, restoring balance to your bite.
3. Orthodontics
   For more severe misalignment, Invisalign® offers a discreet and effective way to realign teeth without traditional braces.
4. Night Guards for Bruxism
   If grinding is contributing to tooth wear, a custom night guard can protect your teeth and preserve your bite.

Protect Your Bite for the Future

Aging doesn’t mean you have to accept discomfort or aesthetic changes in your smile. Regular dental check-ups are key to catching and addressing bite issues early. At Riverwood Dental, we’ll work with you to create a plan that keeps your bite functional and your smile beautiful as you age.