Depending on gender and a slew of life choices, the average American can expect to live well into their 70s. Yet while it may come to no surprise that the 40s may be considered the new 20s according to some social research, try telling that to your body. Modern middle-agers are healthier and more effervescent than ever but life can truly take a toll, especially on your oral health. Fortunately, you can easily get the jump on those changes if you know what to expect regarding your oral health in your 40′s.

Old Fillings Will Need to Be Replaced
Over 90% of Americans between 20 and 64 have dental cavities in at least some of their permanent teeth. So, it’s pretty likely that you will have fillings by the time you reach your 40s. If you’ve had fillings for a considerable amount of time, chances are those are silver amalgams. While those types of fillings are strong and provide fast treatment, they also contain 50% mercury by weight. Amalgams don’t affect everyone equally, but the metal used is not biocompatible to the human body and may lead to some serious bodily and dental health issues. Fortunately, your Moorestown Dentist can replace amalgams with tooth-colored fillings to improve your health and extend your smile for years to come.

Gum Disease Is No Laughing Matter
Gum disease is a serious condition that can destroy your smile and lead to chronic or even fatal diseases if left untreated. Gingivitis is the first stage which is easily corrected and reversed with proper home oral health care dental cleanings. However, it advances so easily that half of Americans over the age of 30 have periodontal disease, the most advanced stage of gum disease. The advanced stage progresses slowly, so there are several obvious warning signs including infected pockets in the gums, bleeding gums, loose or missing teeth, severe inflammation, and excessive decay. In most cases, however, your Moorestown Dentist can diagnose and treat gum disease before it becomes a serious problem.

Teeth Grinding is More Than a Bad Habit
Stress can affect anyone regardless of age, but when it settles in the mouth and causes repetitive clenching or grinding of the teeth, it often progresses to a condition known as TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to the skull and acts as a sliding hinge for easy and pain-free talking, eating, and general facial mobility. When stress causes the teeth to clench or grind and wear down that joint can become loose or locked and lead to extreme pain and bite issues. A simple treatment from your Moorestown Dentist may be all it takes to correct this issue.

Regular Checkups Are Important
The general rule of thumb is to visit a dentist twice a year, but over 100 fail to do that even once annually. Regardless of how strong your home hygiene habits are, a thorough dental exam is the only way to achieve preventive dental care that can diagnose and treat impending issues or reverse high-risk concerns. Dental check-ups are especially important if your teeth are sensitive to temperature, you’ve had any dental treatments in the past, you have persistent dry mouth or bad breath, you’re a smoker, or if you have any oral pain or bleeding gums. A call to your Moorestown Dentist can help you get the preventive care you need to avoid potentially serious problems in the future.