How to maintain a winning smile

Reduce wear and tear

Dr Sidana explains that most changes are due to wear and tear, as teeth perform their normal functions such as chewing. Although our teeth are extremely resistant to abrasion, repeated grinding against neighbouring teeth over many years gradually wears down the outer layer (enamel).

"As a result, aged teeth tend to have more pronounced wear facets, which give the appearance of flattened teeth—both front and back teeth. These wear facets often result in areas of thin enamel, as the tooth structure supporting the enamel is worn away and prone to chipping."

Since the wear and tear occurs naturally, is there anything we can do then?

Dr Sidana suggests avoiding chewing overly hard foods and substances (such as ice) to help slow down the rate of wear and tear. Some abnormal habits like teeth grinding (bruxism) also cause teeth to wear down at a much faster rate. If you think you’re grinding your teeth during the day (or notice your partner doing this in their sleep), it’s worth a visit to your dentist for further investigation and possible bruxism treatments.

Prevent stains

The wearing down of enamel also causes our teeth to change in appearance, often becoming darker or more yellow.

"The reason for this is that the colour of teeth does not predominately come from the enamel, but rather from the underlying tooth structure known as dentine. As the enamel wears, more of the dentine colour shows through, so darkened teeth appear like aged teeth.

"Avoiding substances that stain teeth (coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco) goes a long way in helping to preserve the youthful appearance of teeth."

If your teeth already have stains, teeth whitening can make your smile several shades brighter, but it's still important to avoid creating new stains after whitening.

Follow good oral hygiene

The best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy for life is to practise good oral hygiene: brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing, and following a healthy diet. This is especially important for preventing another visible sign of ageing: receding gums.

"It was once believed that the recession of gums was inevitable with age, and from this belief comes the expression 'grown long in the tooth', which means getting older. This is a complete fallacy! I have 80+ year old patients whose gum level is the same as when they were teenagers.

"Gums recede because of incorrect brushing (scrubbing away the gums) and because of gum disease (periodontitis). This reveals the root surfaces of teeth, which are a darker shade than the crown of the tooth and more susceptible to decay."

So what are the best ways to maintain healthy gums for life?

"The solution is to always brush correctly, chew sugarless gums to neutralise acids, and of course, visit your dentist regularly."

Stay hydrated

Another effect of ageing is that we produce less saliva over time. This causes many older people to experience Dry Mouth Syndrome, which puts their oral health at risk.

"Saliva plays an important role in neutralising acids and remineralising teeth that have been damaged by plaque. If this process continues, it can cause cavities and tooth decay."

In addition, many medications commonly prescribed to elderly people have the side effect of reducing saliva production further. Dr Sidana advises: "These patients should sip water frequently to prevent teeth and tissues from drying out, and discuss with their GPs the possibility of changing their medication to one that may not have the same adverse effect on salivary function."

Get regular screenings

The risk for many serious oral health conditions also increases with age. Oral cancer risk becomes more pronounced after age 50 and peaks between ages 60 and 70, but many people in this demographic still don't know they're at risk.

Follow these oral hygiene tips to give your teeth and gums the best chance at remaining healthy for life. Just as importantly, be conscientious about keeping your six-monthly dental checks to help your dentist be on top of things.