As the body ages, subtle yet important changes occur in the mouth that can impact how veneers appear and function. These changes affect the tissues, alignment, and biological environment that surround and support veneers. Recognising these age-related developments allows patients to take practical steps to maintain their veneers and overall oral health.

Understanding Gum Recession and Its Impact

Gum recession is a common age-related change that can affect the natural appearance and function of dental veneers over time. Understanding its progression and impact helps patients manage their expectations and maintain oral health and aesthetics as they age. The following factors explain how gum recession affects veneers and what patients can do to manage it effectively:

• Gum tissue gradually recedes with age, exposing more of the natural tooth surface over time. In some cases, this recession may reveal the edges of dental veneers, affecting their overall appearance and aesthetic.
• As the gumline moves, veneer margins may become visible, potentially leading to aesthetic concerns, especially in the front teeth.
• The Australian Dental Association recommends daily oral hygiene to maintain gum health and reduce the risk of gum recession. Regular professional dental care also plays a key role in maintaining gum stability and managing age-related changes.
• Normal, age-related gum recession occurs slowly and typically does not require treatment unless it causes discomfort or affects oral function.
• Pathological gum recession can progress quickly when caused by gum disease or forceful brushing habits. Dentists often recommend professional treatment to manage it.
• Patients can reduce the risk of excessive gum recession by using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing gently each day. They should also attend regular dental checkups, where their dentist can provide personalised advice tailored to their oral health needs.
• Consistent plaque removal and avoidance of tobacco use also contribute to healthier gum tissue and a better long-term veneer appearance.
• Pronounced gum recession with sensitivity or bleeding may indicate underlying periodontal disease. Patients should seek a professional assessment without delay.

Some gum recession occurs naturally with age and may expose veneer edges, affecting their appearance over time. Regular dental visits and maintaining good oral hygiene habits help reduce the impact of the recession and maintain healthier gums.

Bite Changes and Teeth Shifting

Teeth naturally shift forward over time, a process known as mesial drift, which can affect the position and alignment of veneers. This shift can cause small gaps to appear between veneers or create bite imbalances that alter chewing function. Facial muscles and jaw joints also change with age, gradually influencing bite patterns and overall veneer fit.

These changes may require minor veneer adjustments or, in some cases, full replacement to maintain proper fit and appearance. Patients who grind their teeth, especially during sleep, place additional stress on veneers, which can accelerate wear and tear. Dentists may recommend custom nightguards to reduce pressure and preserve both natural teeth and restorations. Regular dental checkups enable the early identification of shifting, allowing for the management of veneer longevity through timely, tailored interventions.

Saliva Production and Oral pH Changes

As we age, changes in saliva production and oral pH can affect the long-term performance and health of dental veneers. These changes are part of the ageing process and can impact comfort and the oral environment, particularly around veneer margins. Here are specific ways ageing and related factors can influence saliva flow and the health of veneers.

• Ageing Naturally Reduces Saliva Flow:
  As we age, our salivary glands tend to become less active, resulting in reduced saliva output and a drier mouth.
• Saliva Plays a Vital Role in Oral Protection:
  Saliva helps neutralise acids, wash away food particles, and limit bacterial growth, which protects natural teeth and veneers from damage.
• Low Saliva Increases the Risk of Veneer Complications:
  When saliva flow decreases, plaque can build up more easily around veneers and along the gumline. This buildup may increase the chance of veneer margin discolouration and surface decay over time.
• Common Medications May Contribute to Dry Mouth:
  Older adults often take medications such as antihypertensives, antidepressants, and antihistamines that may cause dry mouth as a side effect. A dry mouth can reduce the protective role of saliva, increasing the risk of bacterial buildup around veneers.
• Xerostomia Research Reveals a Link with Dental Restorations:
  Clinical studies have shown that xerostomia increases the risk of complications associated with dental restorations over time. It can lead to biofilm buildup and may weaken the adhesive bond between the restoration and the tooth surface.
• Practical Ways to Promote Saliva Production:
  Patients can stimulate saliva flow by chewing sugar-free gum and sipping water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Using saliva substitutes or oral moisturisers recommended by dental professionals may also help manage dry mouth symptoms effectively.
• Medication Review Should Be Part of Veneer Maintenance:
  Discuss all current medications with your dentist and general practitioner during regular checkups to review their impact on oral health. They may suggest dosage changes or alternatives that promote saliva production and help reduce dry mouth symptoms.

Ageing can affect saliva flow and oral pH, which may impact the health of your mouth and veneers. You can take practical steps to maintain a healthy oral environment and support the longevity of your veneers over time.