Our bodies change over time, and so does our jaw. Jaw shrinkage can occur without problem and go unnoticed. Or, over time, it can cause complications. Common side effects of a shrinking jaw include:
- Tooth Overcrowding
- Gum Pain
- Change in Facial Structure
So, what causes the jaw to become smaller? Here are three explanations:
- Age: Subtle jaw shrinkage is part of the aging process, according to a Swedish study. In this study, scientists took molds of students’ jaws in 1949 and again in 1989. When comparing the 2 molds, they found a noticeable change in the size during that 20-year span.
- Tooth Loss: Your lower jaw is “U” shaped and has bony projections that support each tooth. If you lose a tooth, the jaw extension that supported that tooth will eventually shrink.
- Osteoporosis : As estrogen levels decrease, bones become weaker, more brittle and can breakdown. As a result, women with osteoporosis have higher rates of tooth loss and can experience general lower bone density within the jaw.
While there’s nothing to prevent you from getting older, there are actions you can take now to prevent tooth loss, osteoporosis, and poor oral health.
