Rocklin Dental

Rocklin Dental
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Tuesday, August 8, 2017

Dental Health Considerations for Teens



If you have a teenager you already know that they face a unique set of challenges during this period of their lives. This is true for their oral health as well. We know that you want the best for your teen and already encourage them to brush and floss, but here are some other things to keep in mind.


Wisdom Teeth: Between the ages of 17 and 21 most of us will have our wisdom teeth come in. Quite often, there is not enough room for them resulting in a number of symptoms including pain and infection. It is important for your teen to have regular dental exams to ensure their wisdom teeth can come in safely. In many cases, when we know there will be a problem in advance, the teeth can be removed at a convenient time instead of waiting for them to hurt.

Poor Nutrition: At this age, you no longer are in control of what your teen eats when you are not around. Many of them lean toward high sugar and unhealthy snack foods or meals with little nutritional value. Without proper nutrition their immune system can struggle to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Diets high in sugar and sodas put them at risk for cavities, tooth enamel loss, and other dental problems.

Tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco are dangerous for your teen's mouth and overall health. Tobacco use can lead to deadly and disfiguring oral cancer, as well as gum disease, tooth loss, stains, and slow healing.

Orthodontia: The teenage years are an ideal time for straightening teeth. Without treatment many will have a higher risk of cavities, periodontal disease, and other conditions due to irregular areas that are hard to clean. Orthodontia can also correct misalignment of the teeth that causes extra stress on the jaw and teeth when chewing. Our office prefers and offers Invisalign orthodontic treatment that is both more convenient and healthy for your teen's teeth.

Eating Disorders: Common issues with eating disorders include cavities, mouth infections, gum disease and poor healing, mostly due to a lack of proper nutrition. Bulimia or throwing up can damage your teen's teeth and gums due to their frequent exposure to powerful stomach acid. If your child has an eating disorder it is extremely important they see their dentist regularly.

Sports Guards: Accidents happen when playing sports and your teen will need a guard to protect their teeth. Sports guards can be colorful, fun, and still do a great job at keeping your child's teeth safe.

Drugs: Drugs can not only compromise the body's ability to heal, but also completely destroy teeth. The most severe example of this is meth mouth, where teeth literally rot and break away.

Motivating your teenager to brush and floss daily and keeping them on track with their dental visits can go a long way toward their having a healthy, happy smile for life.

If you are looking for a dental team that loves teens and and is experienced in Invisalign and other special considerations related to the teenage years, we would love to help.

Call (916) 624-3119 Rocklin, CA