Teens

Pediatric Dentistry for Teens

Teenagers have distinct and varied dental needs. Increased risk for decay due to poor food choices and inattention to oral hygiene thanks to newfound freedom is just one of many challenges. An emphasis on education and continued motivation to help your teen maintain optimal oral hygiene are important during this time period. An individual risk assessment for dental disease will determine the ideal frequency of your teen’s dental visits and help us determine which prevention strategies will be beneficial.

As a dual specialty office, we are able to combine orthodontic and pediatric dental visits to help optimize your child’s oral health. Recognition and early treatment planning of developing orthodontic problems often enable us to either lessen or correct the severity of the problem.

Dental Tips for Teens

Always brush and floss

• These daily habits are the best way to prevent tooth decay! Brush your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste at least twice per day, and floss at least once per day to reach the spaces your toothbrush can’t.

Be conscious of your food choices

• As a teen, you’re busy with school and extracurricular activities. Make sure you eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and limit your intact of junk food, fast food and sugary foods and drinks.

Stay on track with your regular dental appointments

• Annual teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments and sealants can help you keep tooth decay and gum disease away.

Beware of sports drinks

• In sports drinks, the combination of their high sugar content and acidity can lead to cavities.

Mouth guards

• If you play sports or take part in recreational activities, always wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth. We can make you a custom fit mouth guard.

Piercings

• Oral piercings come with many risks such as chipped or cracked teeth, blood clots, infections, gum recession or scar tissue.

Smokeless tobacco is NOT a safe alternative to smoking cigarettes

• This is an unfortunate misconception often made by teens. In as little as four months it can cause periodontal disease and produce pre-cancerous lesions called leukoplakias. Tobacco in any form is dangerous and can jeopardize your teen’s health.

If you have any other questions or would like to make an appointment or arrange a consultation, call (858) 755-4223 or request an appointment online.