When most parents think about their teenager’s dental health, many different things may come to mind, whether it’s orthodontic treatment, wisdom teeth, or something else entirely. But being a teenager brings a whole range of oral health challenges, some of which can threaten your child’s future smile if left unaddressed or unacknowledged! That said, with the right approach, most of these issues are easy to prevent or treat early. Here’s what you need to know and how to help your teen protect their smile.
Teens Have Busy Schedules That Can Affect Oral Hygiene
Between playing sports, participating in extracurriculars like marching band or after-school clubs, and maintaining their social lives, teens are quite busy in their daily lives! Unfortunately, this sometimes means that oral hygiene can become neglected. Skipping or rushing through brushing sessions allows plaque and bacteria to build up, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Encourage your teen to keep up with their brushing and flossing, no matter how busy they get, and remind them that a consistent routine is one of the simplest ways to protect their smile.
The Risk of Dental Emergencies Is Increased in Teens
Teens involved in sports or other high-impact physical activities face an even greater risk of dental trauma, including issues like chipped, cracked, or even knocked-out teeth. A custom-fitted mouthguard offers incredible protection compared to store-bought versions, so be sure that your teen isn’t taking the field (or even the practice field) without one.
Snacking & Sugary Items Can Take Their Toll
Teens aren’t always the best when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet, not to mention that being away from home most of the day and on their own means they’re likely opting for easily accessible junk food. Sports drinks, sodas, and sugary snacks are staples for many teens, but frequent exposure to sugar and acid can wear down enamel and lead to cavities. Ask your teen to carry a water bottle with them when they leave home, as sipping water during the day can help to rinse away sugar particles between brushing sessions.
Hormonal Changes Can Affect Gum Health
The teenage years can be tumultuous for many kids simply due to puberty, which causes all kinds of hormonal changes throughout the body. These shifts can actually make gum tissue more sensitive and prone to inflammation, which in turn increases the risk of gum disease. Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums are some common symptoms, but this condition can be countered by consistent brushing, flossing, and routine dental cleanings.
The bottom line is, there is quite a lot going on with your teen, especially regarding their oral health! Thankfully, keeping things on a healthy track is relatively straightforward.
About the Practice
Our team here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics has served the needs of families near Nashua for several years. We offer a wide range of services for children of all ages, from routine preventive care to timely emergency dentistry. We’re more than happy to help guide your teen toward a lifetime of healthy smiling! If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for your teen, you can reach out online or call us today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (603) 880-5002.