Adolescence is a pivotal time in life; that is also true when it comes to one’s oral health. Our team at Pediatric Dental Center are the experts when it comes to pediatric dentistry in the Burlington, KY area. The good news is that good habits can be forged during this critical time and reinforced. We are committed to helping your teen enjoy the best oral health possible.
On the upside, the last of the permanent teeth come in during the teen years, providing young men and women with their “adult smile.” Teeth can be straightened with orthodontia, which can increase confidence, especially when it is sorely needed.
On the downside, some teenagers take up habits that are harmful to their teeth. Many teens simply don’t understand the importance of proper dental hygiene and how it affects their lifelong oral health and can cause recurring dental issues in later years.
Unfortunately, eating disorders are also far too common among adolescents. Bulimia can cause enamel erosion, decay, and even complete tooth loss. We strongly recommend that you intervene immediately and seek appropriate medical care if you suspect that your teen has an eating disorder.
The importance of diet cannot be overstated. Adolescence is a time when many young men and women often decrease their calcium intake—a danger to both bones and teeth. The consumption of energy drinks and sugary sodas also contribute to tooth and gum problems among teenagers.
Furthermore, adolescents who use tobacco and illegal drugs have an increased risk of tooth decay and oral cancer too. 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 properly cleaning their teeth. It is a challenge fitting toothbrush bristles and floss under dental hardware. Toothbrushes and flossing devices that squirt water can help adequately clean the teeth and gums with braces .
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the following important guidelines for adolescent oral health. Teens should:
- Drink fluoridated water (fluoride supplementation is recommended for high risk teens that don’t have access to fluoridated water up to age 16)
- Use fluoridated toothpaste twice a day
- Floss daily
Parents, the key to ensuring that your child maximizes his or her oral health, is to make sure that he or she receives twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings. Our team at Pediatric Dental Center can help identify and treat oral issues that arise with your teen in the early stages, so that further damage can be prevented or minimized. We believe in providing the best in pediatric dentistry in the Burlington, KY area. Call us today to schedule an examination and cleaning. We are devoted to maintaining your child or teen’s oral health in the Burlington, KY area.
Contact Pediatric Dental Center:
859-534-5640
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
5495 N Bend Rd Ste 102
Burlington, Kentucky
41005
