Understanding the Myth of “Long in the Tooth”
The phrase “long in the tooth” historically referred to horses, whose gums recede throughout their lives, making their teeth appear longer. This allowed observers to estimate a horse's age. The saying was then colloquially applied to people, but for humans, the science is quite different. Once your permanent adult teeth have fully erupted, they do not grow any larger. The changes you observe in tooth size or shape are the result of other, more complex dental processes.
The Science of Tooth Structure and Growth
Unlike bones, which are living tissue that constantly remodels and regenerates, the outermost layer of your teeth, known as enamel, is not living. This makes enamel the hardest substance in the human body, but also means that once it's fully developed and a tooth has emerged, its size is set. Inside the enamel is dentin, a softer tissue, followed by the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. The tooth is held in place by roots and the surrounding jawbone, covered by the gums. The perceived changes in tooth size are a result of alterations to these supporting structures, not the tooth itself.
Why Teeth Appear Longer: The Reality of Gum Recession
The most common reason teeth appear longer with age is gum recession. This happens when the gum tissue pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth's surface and, eventually, the tooth root. It is not an inevitable part of aging but can be a sign of underlying dental issues. Receding gums have several potential causes:
- Periodontal Disease: This is the most common cause of gum recession. Bacterial infections cause inflammation and destroy the gum tissue and underlying bone that support your teeth.
- Aggressive Brushing: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too hard can physically wear away the delicate gum tissue over time.
- Genetics: Some individuals are naturally predisposed to having thinner gum tissue, making them more susceptible to recession.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Chronic grinding or clenching can place excessive force on your teeth and gums, contributing to tissue damage and recession.
- Poor Dental Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up, leading to gum disease.
This exposure of the sensitive tooth root is not only an aesthetic concern but can also lead to increased tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures and a higher risk of decay.
The Opposite Effect: When Teeth Appear Shorter
While gum recession can make teeth look longer, other factors can make them appear shorter over time. This phenomenon is often the result of cumulative wear and tear on the tooth enamel throughout a person's lifetime. Here are the three primary types of tooth wear:
- Attrition: This is tooth-to-tooth friction caused by chewing and grinding. Years of mastication can cause the incisal edges of front teeth and the chewing surfaces of molars to wear down, making the teeth shorter. This is especially true for those with bruxism.
- Erosion: This is the loss of tooth enamel due to acid. Sources of acid can be extrinsic (from diet) or intrinsic (from conditions like acid reflux). Frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks can dissolve the enamel, making teeth appear smaller and more yellow as the underlying dentin is exposed.
- Abrasion: This is the gradual wearing away of tooth structure by a mechanical process. It is often caused by using a hard-bristled brush or brushing too aggressively. Using your teeth to open bottles or bite nails can also cause abrasion.
A Comparative Look at Longer vs. Shorter Teeth
To better understand the differences, here is a comparison of how different aging factors affect the appearance of teeth:
| Feature | When Teeth Appear Longer | When Teeth Appear Shorter |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Primarily gum recession | Primarily tooth wear (attrition, erosion, abrasion) |
| Appearance | More tooth surface and root visible, gums look lower | Flatter, rounded, or uneven chewing/biting surfaces |
| Symptoms | Increased tooth sensitivity, visible roots, inflammation | Increased sensitivity, yellowing (dentin exposure), chipping |
| Associated Issues | Periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, genetics | Bruxism, high-acid diet, improper brushing |
| Underlying Problem | Damage to surrounding gum tissue and bone | Loss of tooth structure (enamel and dentin) |
How to Protect Your Smile as You Age
While certain changes are a normal consequence of aging, proactive dental care can significantly mitigate the negative effects and preserve your smile. Healthy aging is about more than just managing symptoms; it's about prevention and informed care. Here are some key strategies:
- Practice Proper Oral Hygiene: Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush gently but thoroughly twice a day. Floss daily to remove plaque and food debris from between teeth.
- Monitor Your Brushing Technique: Avoid brushing aggressively, as this can exacerbate gum recession. Electric toothbrushes with pressure sensors can be helpful for those who tend to brush too hard.
- Limit Acidic and Sugary Foods: Reduce consumption of sodas, fruit juices, and candies to minimize enamel erosion. If you do have acidic drinks, use a straw to limit contact with your teeth and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
- Manage Teeth Grinding: If you grind your teeth, your dentist may recommend a nightguard to protect your enamel from attrition.
- Address Dry Mouth: Certain medications common in older adults can cause dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay. Drinking plenty of water and using saliva substitutes can help.
- Get Regular Dental Check-ups: Routine visits to your dentist allow for early detection and treatment of gum disease, tooth wear, and other oral health issues. They are crucial for maintaining oral health as you age.
- Consider Gum Grafting: For significant gum recession, a dental professional may recommend a gum graft to restore the lost tissue and protect the exposed roots.
By understanding the actual reasons behind the changes in your teeth's appearance, you can take informed steps to protect your oral health for years to come. Remember, a healthy mouth is a key component of overall healthy aging, so it's important to be proactive about your dental care.
For more detailed information on maintaining oral health throughout your life, consult reputable sources like the National Institute on Aging.
Conclusion
In summary, the notion that teeth get bigger with age is a misconception rooted in old folklore. In reality, human teeth do not grow once they have fully erupted. The visible changes that occur are a result of complex dental processes, most notably gum recession, which exposes more of the tooth's root, and tooth wear, which can shorten the overall height of the tooth. By adopting proper oral hygiene practices, managing diet, and visiting a dentist regularly, you can effectively counteract these natural changes and preserve a healthy, confident smile as you age.
