Today, three-quarters of people over 65 retain at least some of their natural teeth, but older people still suffer higher rates of gum disease, dental decay, oral cancer, mouth infections, and tooth loss.

Why do teeth protrude as we age?

Protruding teeth can be caused by the tongue pressing too far forward in the mouth, which results in a malocclusion – an imperfect positioning of the teeth – such as an overbite or open bite. While this condition is common in childhood, it can carry on into adulthood.

What causes teeth to protrude?

Protruding teeth can also occur when the upper jaw is too small for the number of teeth, which ultimately leads to overcrowding and pushes some of the teeth forward. In some cases, protruding teeth can even occur when there are prematurely lost teeth that leave spaces for the remaining teeth to move around.