From Braces to Bridges: What Every Generation Should Know About Their Teeth

One of the great joys in my practice is seeing families—grandparents, parents, and kids—all come through our doors.  Every age has its own story, and every stage of life adds a new chapter, and I’ve been privileged to listen.  With the right care, your smile can thrive at every stage.  Let’s walk through what every generation should know to protect their smile, and let’s make that journey cheerful, informed, and supported all the way.

Kids & Some Preteens: The Foundation Years

These are the years when habits are formed.  Brushing, flossing, diet, and possibly fluoride (this is a discussion we need to have on an individual basis) make a lasting impact.  Early orthodontic checks can spot future issues.  The goal is prevention and fun, not fear.

This is the age when the foundation is being laid for smiles, breathing, speech, and confidence.  Problems like narrow palates, tongue thrust, crossbites, Class III underbites, or recessive chins can often be spotted early.  Many are caused by genetics or habits like thumb-sucking and mouth breathing.  The sooner we identify these patterns, the more we can guide jaw growth, encourage healthy spacing for permanent teeth, and set kids up for success—often avoiding major treatment later on.  Think of it as setting the stage for a smile that grows with confidence.

Preteens, Teens & Young Adults: The Alignment Years

This is often the age for braces, wisdom teeth, and a growing sense of independence.  My role shifts to guidance—teaching them that a great smile is more than looks.  It's health, confidence, and discipline.

This is when orthodontics often comes into play.  Crooked teeth, crowding, or overbites become more visible.  Sports injuries, poor brushing habits, and sugary diets can lead to cavities, worn enamel, or even early gum disease.  I often see grinding, stress-related clenching, or TMJ issues surface during middle school, high school, and college years.  It’s a great time to lock in good habits and protect a smile still taking shape.  A confident grin can carry a young person far—on dates, on stage, or into job interviews!

30s & 40s: Watch the Shifts

Life gets busy, but your teeth can’t be put on the back burner.  Your teeth are still changing. Stress, sleep, parenting, even snacking habits affect oral health.  Old fillings may crack, bite patterns shift, and gum health may start to decline, especially during pregnancy or under chronic stress.  If your teeth feel more sensitive, or you're waking up with jaw tension or headaches, it's not just aging—it may be bruxism (grinding), gum recession, or early signs of periodontal disease.  This is the decade where prevention pays off—keeping your original teeth healthier, longer.  If something feels off, don’t wait.  Let’s check it out together.

50s & 60s: Strengthen, Preserve, Restore

This is the time to preserve what you’ve got and repair what’s been lost. Bridges, implants, dentures—these can all improve function and confidence. The mouth may be aging, but that doesn’t mean it can’t thrive. Your teeth age with you—but that doesn’t mean they have to suffer.  At every stage, your smile deserves care, attention, and dignity.

This is when we talk about protecting what you’ve built.  Bone density, medications, and hormonal shifts all play a role in oral health.  You might notice changes in occlusion (how your teeth fit together) or how your gums look.  Even past dental work—crowns, bridges, or implants—needs occasional upkeep.  If your smile isn’t feeling like 'you' anymore, don’t be shy—there’s often a simple reason and an easy fix.  Together, we’ll keep your smile as strong and confident as you are.

70s & Beyond: Let Us Help You Care for Your Smile

Brushing and flossing can become harder with age, arthritis, or vision problems.  But your mouth still matters—a lot.  Dental infections at this age can impact heart health, nutrition, and even cognition.  If you’re dealing with dry mouth, dentures, or just can’t quite clean as well as you used to, we’re here to help.  My amazing hygienists, Angela and Gita, know how to adapt your care and keep things gentle.  No stress—just good care with kind hands and a listening ear.

A Final Thought but an Important One

Dental care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your needs evolve over time—and I’m here to guide you through every stage.  The earlier we catch changes, the more options we have.  Whether you’re starting with baby teeth or caring for a lifetime smile, let’s work together to keep your mouth healthy, happy, and full of life.