There's a distinct difference between feeling "a little long in the tooth" and looking that way -- especially when inspecting those pearly whites in the mirror.
A spokesman for the American Dental Association (ADA) cautions that it "It may look as if our teeth grow as we age, but it's really just an illusion. Our gums may recede and expose more of the tooth. This is usually a sign of periodontal or gum disease, which can be treated and even prevented."
"Look for bleeding, swollen gums, or pus between the teeth and gums," the spokesman says. "In later stages, your teeth may also become loose or start to separate."
Treatment varies from gum surgery to deep-scale removal and intensive cleaning by a dentist. Prevention is the key, which means "thorough brushing twice a day, flossing daily or using an inter-dental cleaner, eating a balanced diet and having regular professional cleanings."
