The team at Jefferson City Dental Care serving Jefferson City, California, Columbia and Fulton MO wants to discuss teenager oral health and some issues your teen might have.
When it comes to oral health, adolescence is a pivotal time. On the upside, the last of the permanent teeth come in providing young men and women with their “adult smile.” Good habits can be forged and reinforced. Teeth can be corrected with orthodontia, providing increased confidence when it is often sorely needed.
On the downside, some youth take up habits that are harmful to their teeth. Adolescents often don’t understand the importance of proper dental hygiene and how it affects lifelong oral health. Some young men and women develop teenage decay that can cause recurring dental problems in later years.
TEEN ORAL HEALTH ISSUES
- Eating disorders are far too common among teenagers. Bulimia can cause enamel erosion, decay, and even complete tooth loss. We strongly urge parents to intervene immediately and seek appropriate medical care if they suspect their teen has an eating disorder.
- Adolescence is a time when many young men and women decrease their calcium intake—a danger to both bones and teeth.
- Drinking sugary beverages (including energy drinks, soda, and other sugar-sweetened drinks) also contribute to tooth and gum problems in teenagers.
- Furthermore, teenagers who use tobacco and illegal drugs have an increased risk of tooth decay and oral cancer.
- Oral piercings can be extremely dangerous. The health risks include tooth and gum damage, infection, allergic reactions, nerve damage, and excessive swelling that can block airways.
- Teens who are undergoing orthodontic treatment often have a difficult time thoroughly cleaning their teeth. It is a challenge to fit toothbrush bristles and floss under dental hardware. Toothbrushes and flossing devices that squirt water can help adolescents with braces adequately clean their teeth and gums.
SMILE-FRIENDLY SOLUTIONS
The team at Jefferson City Dental Care serving Jefferson City, California, Columbia and Fulton MO advises parents to make sure their youth receive twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings. Our team can identify and treat oral issues in their early stages so that further damage can be prevented or minimized.
Here are some other guidelines for good oral health:
- Drink fluoridated water.
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste
- Floss daily.
Get on the right side of a smile-friendly solution.
If you are looking for a friendly, experienced dentist, call Jefferson City Dental Care to schedule an exam and consultation. Jefferson City Dental Care is located in Jefferson City and serves families from California, Columbia and Fulton MO as well. You can meet with us about porcelain veneers, tooth-colored fillings, implant-supported dentures, Invisalign clear braces, Six Month Smiles, and teeth whitening. Call us today.
Contact Jefferson City Dental Care:
573-634-2400
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3551 Amazonas
Jefferson City, Missouri
65109
