Aging is an inevitable part of life, and while it brings wisdom and experience, it also brings plenty of surprises we might not expect. Recently, I noticed my lower teeth have become noticeably crooked. This wasn’t something I anticipated, especially after years of having them straightened with braces during my awkward middle school phase. Concerned, I reached out to a few friends in their 40s and 50s, only to find out they had experienced similar dental shifts.

To understand this phenomenon better, I contacted Dr. Leila Jahangiri, chair of prosthodontics at New York University College of Dentistry. She confirmed that it is indeed not unusual for teeth to "shift and drift" as we age, primarily affecting the lower teeth more than the upper. Factors contributing to this change include tooth loss, gum disease, and even habits like grinding. If your teeth start moving, don’t panic—it's just one of the many surprises of aging. But what else should we be aware of as we grow older?

1. Changes in Your Voice

An unexpected transformation that many experience is a change in vocal quality. As we age, our vocal cords become thinner and lose elasticity, resulting in a weaker or raspier voice. Dr. Ted Mau from UT Southwestern Medical Center points out that men and women may experience these changes differently. Men’s voices often rise in pitch, moving away from that deep timbre they once had, while hormonal shifts in women may lead to a lower pitch. If you notice persistent changes in your voice, especially if accompanied by hoarseness, seeking advice from an ear, nose, and throat specialist is wise.

2. Height Loss: You May Be Shrinking

Height loss is common with age, starting as early as the age of 40. The average man may shrink about an inch by 70, while women could lose nearly two inches. This reduction in height can often be attributed to the loss of bone and cartilage in the spine, weakened muscles, and even flattened foot arches. Promoting bone health through weight-bearing exercises, along with adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, can help slow down this process. Noticing a height loss of more than an inch in a short time frame? It’s definitely worth consulting your doctor.

3. A Decrease in Migraines? Yes, Please!

For women, the migraine burden is heavy, occurring two to three times more often than in men. However, excitingly, many women report a significant reduction in migraines post-menopause. Dr. Seniha Nur Ozudogru from Penn Medicine notes that after this life stage, migraines can become less frequent, less severe, or even disappear entirely. Symptoms might also change, with women experiencing migraines without typical side effects like aura or nausea. If you've struggled with migraines for years, this could be one of the silver linings of aging.

4. Embracing the Journey

As I reflect on my new smile and slightly huskier voice, I find comfort in embracing these changes. Aging might come with its quirks, but it’s never too late to form a new identity and appreciate the journey. After all, with each year, we gather not just the wisdom of experience but also the chance to adapt to a transforming self.

Ultimately, aging is a mysterious voyage that brings both challenges and unexpected joys. If you notice these signs in your own life, remember that you are not alone—change is part of growing older!