Teen's Dentistry
Dental health during teen years offers another set of challenges. For most parents, this doesn’t come as a big surprise. A dizzying number of changes strike during these formative years, and parents often experience a few frustrations along the way.
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But teens listen more than we realize, and pestering parents can make a tremendous difference in the dental future of these young adults. Oral home care habits tend to slide, sometimes to the point of complete neglect. Increased independence may lead to eating and drinking habits that harm oral and overall health. Don’t underestimate any encouragement given to help your teen avoid the long-term effects of cavities and gum inflammation.
Preventive visits every six months provide us with an opportunity to coach your teen and reinforce the efforts you’re making with them. Sometimes the rapport we establish in a professional, yet friendly, setting proves especially effective. Plus we can share problems with them through visual aids while reinforcing any positive efforts they’re making.
Tips for home efforts that protect your teen’s dental health:
- Limit sodas and energy drinks. Sugary carbonated drinks are the number one cause of tooth decay in adolescents. Many 20 ounce bottles of soda contain 18 teaspoons of sugar in an extremely acidic liquid. The combination can be devastating for teeth.
- Encourage brushing before bedtime. Night hours can be especially harmful as the mouth dries out and bacterial plaque flourishes.
- Explain the dangers of sharing toothbrushes. Teens love to share everything, even toothbrushes. The bacteria that cause gum disease and cavities can easily transfer from one person to the next through this method.
- Slip in dental floss or a toothpick with their lunch or backpack.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How often should my teen visit the dentist?
Teens should have a dental checkup and cleaning every six months to prevent cavities, monitor their oral health, and address any developing issues like wisdom teeth or orthodontic concerns. Regular visits also help reinforce good oral hygiene habits.
Do teenagers still need fluoride treatments?
Yes! While baby teeth are gone, teens are still at risk for cavities, especially if they have braces or consume a lot of sugary snacks and drinks. Fluoride treatments help strengthen enamel and prevent decay, making them a smart choice for teens.
What are the best options for straightening my teen’s teeth?
Depending on their needs, your teen may benefit from traditional braces or clear aligners like Invisalign®. We offer consultations to determine the best orthodontic solution to fit their lifestyle and dental health goals.
How can my teen prevent bad breath?
Bad breath is often caused by poor oral hygiene, leftover food particles, or bacteria buildup. Encourage your teen to brush twice a day, floss daily, and clean their tongue. Staying hydrated and avoiding excessive sugary or acidic drinks can also help.
Should my teen get their wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth usually start coming in during the late teens. Some grow in without issues, but others can become impacted, crowd teeth, or cause pain. We monitor wisdom teeth development through X-rays and will recommend removal if necessary.