How Aging Affects Your Teeth and Gums

March 24, 2025

Maintain Your Oral Health While You Age

Best Periodontist in Salt Lake City, UT

Aging is a natural part of life—but with age often come changes to your dental health that can catch you off guard. From enamel erosion to gum recession and tooth loss, your oral health evolves with time. But the good news? Many of these changes can be managed or even prevented with the right care.

At Wasatch Periodontics in Salt Lake City, we specialize in helping patients of all ages maintain strong, healthy smiles. Whether you’re experiencing gum issues, bone loss, or are looking for long-term solutions like dental implants from Wasatch Perio, we’re here to support you.

How Your Teeth Change as You Age

1. Enamel Wear and Sensitivity

Years of chewing, brushing, and consuming acidic foods can cause enamel to wear down, increasing tooth sensitivity and vulnerability to decay.

2. Discoloration

Enamel thinning can expose the yellowish dentin underneath. Long-term use of coffee, tea, or tobacco can also leave stains that resist over-the-counter whitening.

3. Increased Risk of Decay

Dry mouth—a common side effect of medications—can limit saliva production, allowing bacteria to thrive and cavities to form more easily.

Gum and Bone Health Over Time

Gum Recession

As you age, your gums may recede naturally or due to plaque buildup. This not only makes your teeth appear longer but also exposes root surfaces to decay and sensitivity.

Periodontal Disease

Older adults are more likely to develop gum disease due to cumulative plaque exposure, systemic health conditions, or lapses in care. Our team provides comprehensive periodontics in Salt Lake City to manage and treat these conditions.

Bone Loss

Untreated gum disease or missing teeth can lead to bone deterioration in the jaw. If you’ve lost teeth, dental implants in Salt Lake City are a reliable way to preserve jawbone density and restore function.

Advanced Solutions for Aging Smiles

At Wasatch Periodontics, we offer a full spectrum of treatments to help mature smiles look and feel their best:

Gum Grafting

Receding gums can be treated with gum grafts to protect tooth roots and improve aesthetics.

Dental Implants

Permanent and natural-looking, implants help replace missing teeth while preserving bone. We’re known for placing dental implants at Wasatch Perio with precision and long-term success.

Oral Surgery

If teeth or soft tissue require surgical care, we offer advanced oral surgery in Salt Lake City, all in one trusted location.

Orthodontics

Did you know orthodontic care isn’t just for teenagers? Adults can benefit from discreet straightening options that help reduce overcrowding, improve bite alignment, and prevent further gum problems. If you’re considering orthodontics in Salt Lake City, ask us for a consultation.

Sedation Dentistry

Many older adults experience anxiety or have medical concerns that make dental visits challenging. We offer oral sedation in Salt Lake City to ensure comfortable, low-stress experiences for every procedure.

Emergency and Same-Day Dental Care

Life doesn’t always go as planned. If you’re facing severe gum pain, a loose implant, or swelling, our team provides access to emergency dentistry in Salt Lake City UT. We also offer same day dental care in Salt Lake City to help you get the treatment you need, when you need it.

Tips to Maintain Oral Health as You Age

  • Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice daily
  • Floss or use a water flosser regularly
  • Stay hydrated to combat dry mouth
  • Get regular professional cleanings and exams
  • Replace worn restorations before they fail
  • Address any discomfort early with a Salt Lake City periodontist

The Smile You Deserve at Every Age

Aging doesn’t mean losing your smile. With the support of a skilled team like Wasatch Periodontics, you can maintain strong gums, healthy teeth, and lasting confidence. Whether you’re searching for the best periodontics near you in 84124 or want to explore long-term solutions like implants or gum restoration, we’re ready to help you thrive.

Contact Wasatch Periodontics in Salt Lake City today to schedule your consultation and restore your smile with expert care.



Our Services

4252 South Highland Drive, Millcreek, Utah 84124

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