Teens and Good Dental Health

High school is an exciting and tumultuous time. Your teen is starting to exert his or her independence. At the same time, however, he or she still depends on you for care and guidance. For this reason, it is important to be fully informed about teenage dental care. You can help your child take good care of his or her smile. Having your teen attend routine general dentistry exams and cleanings can prevent dental problems, and enable dentists to treatment dental problems at their earliest signs. In addition, certain treatments, such as Invisalign®, will improve your teen’s oral health for life. These clear, discreet aligner trays can improve his or her appearance and provide an important boost of self-esteem during those stressful adolescent years. To learn more about dental care for teens, contact our Troy practice today.

Dental Hygiene

Of course, at all ages, proper dental hygiene is essential for a healthy and beautiful smile. Teens (and their parents) should brush, floss, and use mouthwash daily. This will keep bacteria, plaque, and tartar at bay, preventing decay and gum disease. For optimal oral health, you should also schedule biannual dental appointments for your teen.

The Importance of Orthodontia

Orthodontic treatment can be a vital aspect of a teen’s oral health. Misaligned teeth will not simply affect your child’s appearance and self-confidence. They can also lead to a number of serious dental concerns, including an increased risk for decay, tooth erosion, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. However, many teens already feel self-conscious about their appearance without the added concern of bulky metal braces. In this case, Invisalign® can be a great solution. This treatment can achieve many of the same effects as traditional braces. However, instead of metal brackets and wires, Invisalign® uses clear, smooth aligner trays to straighten teeth. The discreet nature of these trays makes them virtually undetectable. This subtlety can make a huge difference for a teen preparing for prom, graduation, college interviews, and other important events.

Invisalign® offers additional benefits that can make the treatment a great choice for teens. First, the aligners are removable. Your teen can brush and floss more thoroughly, and food will not get trapped in the trays. He or she will also face very few dietary restrictions, if any. Invisalign® trays will exert less force on teeth than traditional braces, and they will not irritate the soft tissues. Finally, Invisalign® requires fewer adjustments than metal braces, making them a great option for busy high schoolers and their parents.

Teenage Athletes

Sports can be a huge part of high school. Far too often, however, teens put their teeth at risk by not following correct safety precautions. Mouth guards are comfortable and inexpensive. They can dramatically reduce the risk of broken or knocked out teeth, as well as injuries to the lips and cheeks. If your teen plays contact sports (or sports where there is a high risk of falling), make sure that he or she wears proper protective gear. A custom device will be more effective than a pre-made, store-bought version.

Learn More about Teenagers and Dental Health

Thorough care and guidance will enhance your child’s appearance, oral health, and self-confidence. Whether your child needs a routine cleaning or orthodontic care, contact us today for the personalized care you deserve.