Yes, your mouth changes shape as you get older
It is a common misconception that once our adult teeth come in, our mouth and jaw structure are set for life. The reality is that the mouth, much like the rest of the body, is in a constant state of subtle change. For example, a lifelong process called “bone remodeling” means our jawbone is continuously breaking down and replacing old cells. Over decades, these small changes add up, leading to noticeable transformations in your mouth's shape and function.
The role of bone resorption and jaw shrinkage
One of the most significant factors in the changing shape of your mouth is bone resorption, a process where the body reabsorbs bone tissue. After losing teeth, the jawbone is no longer stimulated by the tooth roots, and the bone in that area begins to shrink. This can have a domino effect on your entire facial structure.
- Causes of bone resorption: Tooth loss, periodontal (gum) disease, and osteoporosis all contribute to a reduction in jawbone density.
- Impact on facial aesthetics: Jawbone shrinkage reduces support for the cheeks and lips, leading to a hollowed-out or sunken facial appearance.
- Consequences for dentures: For denture wearers, bone loss means the dental arches change shape over time, causing dentures to fit poorly. This can further accelerate bone loss and lead to a perpetually sagging facial look known as "denture face".
How teeth shift and crowd with age
Teeth are not permanently fixed in the jawbone; they can shift throughout a person's life, a process called physiologic mesial drift. This movement is influenced by various factors.
- Crowding: For many people, the lower front teeth tend to crowd and overlap as they get older. This can be a result of the jawbone's shrinking, which reduces the space available for the teeth.
- Gaps: Conversely, some individuals may develop gaps, or diastema, between their front teeth. This can be caused by swallowing habits, tongue thrusting, or gum disease.
- Bite changes: The bite, or occlusion, can also change over time, often leading to a deeper overbite. Misalignment (malocclusion) can cause headaches, jaw pain, and difficulty chewing.
The impact of gum recession and enamel wear
In addition to the jawbone and teeth, the gums and enamel also change with age, altering the appearance and health of your mouth.
- Gum recession: A common issue in older adults, receding gums expose more of the tooth root, making teeth appear longer. This also increases sensitivity and vulnerability to decay. Aggressive brushing, gum disease, and genetics can all play a role.
- Enamel wear: Decades of chewing and grinding, known as bruxism, can wear down the protective enamel layer of the teeth. This can make teeth appear shorter and yellower, as the underlying dentin becomes more visible.
Age-related changes to the lips and surrounding muscles
The lips and the skin around the mouth are also affected by the aging process. A significant factor is the gradual loss of collagen and elastin, the proteins that provide skin with plumpness and elasticity.
- Loss of volume: As collagen decreases, lips tend to thin out and lose definition, with the cupid's bow becoming less pronounced.
- Lengthening upper lip: The upper lip can lengthen as skin laxity increases, making the space between the nose and lip appear longer.
- Downturned corners: Muscles can weaken and ligaments stretch, causing the corners of the mouth to droop and create a sad or tired appearance.
Comparison: Youthful vs. Aged Mouth Characteristics
| Feature | Youthful Appearance | Aged Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| Jawline | Defined, with strong bone support for teeth | Often appears hollowed or sunken due to bone loss |
| Teeth | Straight, symmetrical, and white due to healthy enamel | May be crowded, shifted, shorter from wear, or discolored |
| Gums | High and tight around the base of the teeth | Receded, exposing more of the tooth root |
| Lips | Full, plump, with a defined vermillion border | Thinner, less defined, and potentially downturned at the corners |
| Bite | Aligned and even, distributing chewing force properly | Can develop a deep overbite or other misalignments |
Can age-related mouth changes be treated?
For those experiencing negative changes to their mouth's shape and function, modern dentistry and orthodontics offer several solutions. Orthodontic treatments, including traditional braces and clear aligners like Invisalign, are effective for adults of all ages to correct shifting and misaligned bites. Restorative options like dental implants provide much-needed stimulation to the jawbone, helping to prevent further bone resorption after tooth loss. For concerns about lip volume and wrinkles, cosmetic procedures such as dermal fillers can help restore a more youthful appearance.
Conclusion
While it is a natural part of the aging process, mouth changes as you get older can have a significant impact on both your oral health and facial aesthetics. These transformations stem from deeper structural changes involving the jawbone, gum tissue, and facial muscles. Understanding these processes empowers individuals to take proactive steps, such as maintaining good oral hygiene, seeking timely dental care, and exploring corrective treatments. By staying informed and engaged with oral health throughout life, it is possible to mitigate many of the most dramatic age-related shifts, preserving a healthier and more confident smile for years to come.
Authoritative resource
- American Academy of Facial Esthetics: https://facialesthetics.org/a-new-look-at-facial-aging/
