While we can all be affected by oral health issues, teenagers are specifically vulnerable to tooth decay, gum disease, and mouth injuries, but with the right care and attention from a Spruce Grove dentist these dental conditions can be easily avoided.
Once a child reaches their teenage years, there is a lot that can go awry with their oral health. Unhealthy snacks, sugary drinks, and even tobacco use can play a role in your teenager’s oral health condition. A higher intake of unhealthy meals mixed with riskier athletic activities means that a teen’s risk of developing a dental health condition is higher than ever.
Poor oral hygiene leads to stained teeth, inflamed gums, and bad breath. The good news is that preventing oral health problems in teenagers can be easy, and teaching them the importance of maintaining an excellent oral hygiene routine makes all the difference. Whether you are a teenager yourself, or the parent of a teen, here are five tips for looking after your oral health:
#1 Get Regular Dental Cleanings and Exams
While maintaining an excellent oral hygiene routine of brushing twice a day for at least two minutes and flossing once each evening is helpful, it is important that you visit a dental clinic in Spruce Grove at least once every six months for a professional dental cleaning and exam. This will ensure that bacteria and plaque build-up in the mouth that has not been addressed by daily brushing is kept to a minimum. Additionally, it will allow the dentist to monitor your oral health and identify any problems early on. Early identification is important for successful treatment and the maintenance of optimal oral health.
#2 Pay Attention to Your Wisdom Teeth
Visiting a dentist near you every six months, as mentioned above, will also give them the opportunity to monitor the development of your wisdom teeth. It is common for wisdom teeth to begin to develop behind the back molars during our teenage years. While wisdom teeth used to be necessary, many of us no longer require them, thanks to evolution. Wisdom teeth run the risk of growing in at a bad angle, damaging surrounding teeth and leading to oral infections. If your dental x-ray shows signs of impacted wisdom teeth, speak to your dentist about getting them extracted before they can cause severe oral health issues.
#3 If You’re a Sports Player- Wear a Mouthguard
High-impact sports such as hockey, basketball, football, soccer, and boxing can increase your risk for broken teeth and other injuries to the face and mouth. As one gets older and enters junior and senior high school, there is often a lot of pressure placed on participating in sports and upping the intensity. Broken, cracked, chipped, or fractured teeth can be expensive to fix and can even lead to abscesses or infection if left alone. Consider purchasing a mouthguard during risky sports to decrease the chance of sustaining dental injuries and increase your chance of killing it on the field.
#4 Pay Attention to Signs of Gum Disease and Tooth Decay
Those who are at risk of gum disease often begin to show signs during their teenage years. If you notice red, swollen, or sensitive gums when undergoing your daily brushing and flossing routine, make an appointment with a dentist in Spruce Grove as soon a possible. When caught early, gum disease is entirely reversible, but it can require invasive and often expensive treatment if caught in its later stages.
While cavities don’t always show symptoms, they can cause some tooth sensitivity and discomfort. If tooth decay has progressed far enough, it can lead to severe toothaches, and it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible when this happens to avoid needing a tooth extraction.
#5 Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices
As mentioned earlier, a solid oral hygiene routine plays a vital role in preventing gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss. On top of brushing and flossing daily, you should also avoid sugary beverages and snacks such as soda and gummy worms. If you must indulge in these foods and beverages, you should try to rinse your mouth after ingesting them. Make sure that you also avoid tobacco products. Not only are these terrible for your overall health, but they can also contribute to tooth decay and staining. Ensure that you drink plenty of water and maintain a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. If you ever notice any changes to your oral health or sudden discomfort, visit a dentist right away.
Finding the Right Oral Health Care Provider
Remember that for patients of all ages, lowering the risk of oral health problems can be simple. Stick to an excellent oral hygiene routine, wear a mouthguard during sports, and lead a healthy lifestyle. It can be difficult to stay on top of your oral health with so many things going on in your day-to-day life, but it is vital to prioritize looking after your teeth and gums. If you are ever experiencing oral health issues, speak to a dentist as soon as you can.
If you are looking for high-quality dental care, please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated team of dental professionals at Blossom Family Dental. We are happy to provide comprehensive dental care for adults and teenagers alike. Please contact us to book your appointment today. We cannot wait to see your shining smile!
