Key Takeaways
- Oral health changes naturally after age 40, and early action helps prevent long-term issues.
- Gum recession, tooth wear, sensitivity, and dry mouth are some of the most common problems adults face.
- Regular visits to a dentist in Sherman Oaks help catch these issues before they become more serious.
- Lifestyle habits, stress, and medications often play a bigger role in oral health after 40.
- Clove Dental Sherman Oaks provides personalized care to help adults maintain strong, healthy smiles as they age.
Have you ever wondered why your teeth or gums feel different as you get older? The easy answer is this: after 40, your mouth starts to show signs of wear, and small changes that once went unnoticed can grow more noticeable.
Many adults who visit Clove Dental Sherman Oaks are surprised to learn that their oral health needs shift as they age. Even people who have taken great care of their teeth can still experience natural changes. Seeing a dentist in Sherman Oaks regularly helps you understand what’s normal, what’s not, and how to keep your smile healthy for years to come.
Below are the most common issues we see and what they mean for your long-term smile.
1. Gum Recession
Gum recession happens when the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots. This can make the teeth look longer and feel more sensitive.
Common causes include:
- Brushing too hard
- Genetics
- Gum disease
- Teeth grinding
- Natural aging
Exposed roots are more prone to cavities and discomfort, which is why regular exams with a dentist in Sherman Oaks help catch recession early. With proper care, we can slow the process and protect the exposed areas.
2. Tooth Wear and Flattened Edges
Over decades of chewing and grinding, enamel slowly wears down. Adults over 40 often notice:
- Shorter teeth
- Flattened biting edges
- Chipping
- Cracking
- Sensitivity
Grinding at night, stress, and certain biting habits contribute to this wear. A night guard, bonding, or restorative care can help rebuild worn teeth and protect them from further damage.
Clove Dental Sherman Oaks sees this often, and early treatment keeps wear from turning into fractures.
3. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Dry mouth becomes more common as people age, especially if they take medications for:
- Blood pressure
- Anxiety
- Allergies
- Depression
Saliva protects your teeth by washing away bacteria. When saliva flow decreases, the risk of decay increases.
If you’re struggling with dryness, a dentist in Sherman Oaks can recommend rinses, hydration methods, and protection for your enamel to prevent cavities.
4. Increased Tooth Sensitivity
As gums recede and enamel thins, temperature sensitivity becomes more noticeable. Many adults describe discomfort when drinking cold water or eating hot foods.
This sensitivity can be caused by:
- Exposed roots
- Worn enamel
- Grinding
- Small cracks
- Older fillings breaking down
A professional evaluation helps determine whether sensitivity needs simple desensitizing care or something more protective.
5. Failing or Aging Dental Work
Fillings, crowns, and bonding don’t last forever. After 10–20 years, dental restorations can weaken and allow bacteria to slip in.
Signs that older dental work needs attention include:
- Dark edges around fillings
- Pain when chewing
- Cracks around the tooth
- Sensitivity that wasn’t there before
A dentist in Sherman Oaks can check each restoration and replace anything that is no longer supporting the tooth properly.
6. Higher Risk of Gum Disease
Gum disease becomes more common after age 40, especially if plaque builds up below the gumline. Early gum inflammation often goes unnoticed, which is why deep cleanings or gum therapy may be needed.
Symptoms include:
- Gums that bleed easily
- Bad breath
- Swollen or tender gums
- Loose teeth in advanced cases
Routine care helps prevent gum disease from progressing, and timely treatment keeps your gums strong and healthy.
7. Cracked or Weak Teeth
Years of chewing, clenching, or biting hard foods can weaken teeth. Hairline cracks may develop, causing pain when biting or temperature changes.
Untreated cracks can lead to infections or root canals later on. Early detection by a dentist in Sherman Oaks allows us to protect the tooth with bonding, a crown, or night-guard therapy before the damage grows.
8. Shifting Teeth or Bite Changes
Even adults who had braces earlier in life can experience shifting teeth. This often happens because:
- Retainers were not worn
- Bone support changed
- Grinding pushed teeth out of place
Minor shifts can make the bite uneven or crowd the front teeth. Clear aligners or small adjustments can help restore balance.
How Clove Dental Sherman Oaks Helps Adults Over 40
At Clove Dental Sherman Oaks, we understand the oral health challenges that come with aging. We take the time to explain what’s happening in your mouth, what to expect, and what steps help the most.
We focus on:
- Early detection
- Gentle preventive cleanings
- Strengthening worn teeth
- Protecting weak spots
- Treating gum disease
- Replacing outdated dental work
- Improving comfort and confidence
Seeing a dentist in Sherman Oaks regularly ensures you stay ahead of problems rather than reacting to them later.
Final Thoughts
Turning 40 doesn’t mean your smile has to decline; it simply means your oral health needs change. With the right guidance, preventive care, and timely treatment, your teeth and gums can stay strong for decades.
If you’ve noticed sensitivity, shifting, or new dental concerns, we’re here to help you keep your smile healthy, comfortable, and confident.
FAQs
Is it normal for my gums to recede as I get older?
Some gum recession is common with age, but excessive recession isn’t normal. It may be caused by brushing too hard, gum disease, or grinding. A dentist in Sherman Oaks can evaluate the cause and recommend ways to protect exposed roots.
Why are my teeth more sensitive now than they were before?
Sensitivity increases after 40 because enamel wears down and gums recede, exposing the softer dentin layer. Your dentist can determine whether the cause is enamel erosion, gum recession, or a developing issue like a crack or cavity.
Do older dental fillings need to be replaced?
Yes, most fillings last 10–20 years. Over time, they can loosen, crack, or leak, allowing bacteria inside the tooth. A dentist in Sherman Oaks will check your restorations during exams and let you know when replacement is necessary.
Why am I experiencing more dry mouth as I age?
Many adults develop dry mouth due to medications, dehydration, or reduced saliva production. Dry mouth increases the risk of cavities, so it’s important to manage it with the help of your dentist.
Can stress cause dental problems after 40?
Absolutely. Clenching and grinding can wear down enamel, cause jaw pain, and lead to cracked teeth. Night guards or bite adjustments from a dentist in Sherman Oaks can help protect your teeth.
What’s the biggest oral health risk for adults over 40?
Gum disease. It often starts silently, but can lead to bone loss or tooth loss if untreated. Regular cleanings and early treatment prevent it from progressing.