Shortening of teeth in elderly mouths

I have noticed over the past several years that all my teeth are shortening.  Some, especially the lateral incissors,have nearly disappeared from view.  All the teeth seem to be affected.  When I smile no teeth are visable as they were in younger life.  I am a smokeless tobacco user - is there any connection?  Should I seek to have them all crowned or are dentures the only option in my remaining years?  I have no pain associated with this condition and to my knowledge no cavities.

[Jerome Bogin, D.D.S.]

First off ,smokeless tobacco has been known to cause oral cancer. The excessive wear that you seem to be describing can be attributed to a number of things. The type of diet, any grinding or bruxing habits and the normal wear that you might see because of aging. I do feel that dentures should only be considered as a last resort.