Teeth don't actually grow bigger after they've fully developed; what appears to be growth is usually due to other dental issues. According to our reference, they are not actually growing in size. The change in appearance is due to several issues that typically come up as you get older.
Here's a breakdown of what might make your teeth look longer:
-
Gum Recession: As you age, your gums may recede, exposing more of the tooth's root. This gives the illusion that the teeth are getting longer.
-
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding your teeth can wear down the enamel, making the teeth appear longer as the underlying layers become exposed.
-
Bone Loss: Bone loss in the jaw, often due to periodontal disease, can lead to gum recession and the exposure of more tooth structure.
-
Wear and Tear: Over time, chewing and other normal functions can wear down the biting edges of your teeth, making them appear longer.
Therefore, any perceived growth is usually the result of these conditions that alter the appearance of the teeth, rather than an actual increase in tooth size.
