Oral Hygiene The value of good daily brushing and flossing is astronomical! If parents establish a good routine during childhood, an adolescent will most likely follow through into adulthood. We know that teen life can be busy and they sometimes forget to make oral hygiene a priority. Set a good example for them and go high tech, maybe try to incorporate using a downloadable app or buying them a gadget! Gentle reminders from the dentist and family can help teens understand and remember the importance of oral health. We are now finding that poor oral health is related to systemic problems in the body such as heart disease and diabetes. Dentists and Hygienists know that adolescents need to be better informed about the risks involved with poor oral health. Here at Smile Island Pediatric & Adult Dental Group, we are constantly trying to relay the message of good health to all of our patients.Hormonal ChangesDuring puberty, hormonal changes can cause an increase in blood flow to the gums. This will lead to redness and swelling and eventually gum disease if not properly taken care of. There also may be some tenderness and bleeding at the irritated areas between teeth. It is essential for teens to keep up with daily flossing around the teeth and use proper brushing techniques to prevent unsightly teeth, gums, and bad breath. Doctors at Smile Island Pediatric & Adult Dental Group can prescribe a dental regimen that will help reduce the effects of hormonal imbalance on the teeth and gums. BracesMany teens have braces or a retainer on their teeth. These appliances make tooth brushing and flossing more of a chore than normal. Adolescents with orthodontic appliances tend to get more cavities because they do not follow through with proper oral health maintenance. Even without braces teens tend to place oral care low on their list of daily priorities. Everyone at Smile Island Pediatric & Adult Dental Group know the importance of giving extensive and motivational oral hygiene instruction to kids with braces at each appointment. Tips For Teen Home CareSome ideas to help teens enjoy oral care include:
Make sure brush for a minimum of two times a day, and always remember to brush and floss at nighttime. Leaving food and plaque on your teeth all night is putting yourself at a higher risk of tooth decay. |
