Regular dental visits are essential for teenagers as they go through hormonal changes during puberty; this also includes changes to their mouth. Here at the Smile Team, we understand how this period of change in the body, relationships, and responsibilities can be especially challenging for teenagers. On this blog we will highlight some changes your teenagers may experience in their oral health and how they keep their mouths healthy.
These changes include:
- Puberty gingivitis: Sex hormones, especially in females, can trigger the gums in the mouth to become swollen and bleed more easily. These hormones can also increase the growth of bacteria in the mouth.
- Halitosis: The increase in growth of bacteria can also cause halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath. The accumulating bacteria can cause bad breath.
- Wisdom teeth: The eruption of wisdom teeth is common during the teenage years. This can increase the risk of cavities in the molars and increase the risk of crowding and jaw pain. We have a detailed blog titled “Everything you need to know about wisdom teeth” on the Smile Team website at https://smileteamtoronto.ca/blog/. Be sure to check that out to understand wisdom teeth, complications, treatment options, and aftercare instructions.
- Injuries to the teeth: As teenagers embark on a journey to find their interest in various sports, the risk of sport-related injuries to the mouth increases. As kids, when they lost their teeth, they knew new ones would grow out; however, adult teeth do not grow back. Using a protective mouth guard that is customized to your child’s smile will help protect their teeth and jaw while also feeling comfortable. Consult your dentist, Dr. Abid Hidayat, regarding a mouth guard for your teenager today by calling 416-546-5599.⦁ Stained teeth: As teenagers grow into this new phase of their life, their diet often changes. Beverages like soda, coffee, and tea can lead to staining if consumed on a daily basis.
- Increased risk of cavities: Due to changes in hormones and diet, teenagers are at an increased risk for cavities. If your child wears braces or lingual wires, it may be more challenging for them to brush and floss. We have a detailed blog titled “Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Brush and Floss Your Teeth with Braces Using the Charter Brushing Method!” on the Smile Team website at https://smileteamtoronto.ca/blog/. Oral hygiene is essential with braces, as gums can become irritated from the bacteria and become swollen, eventually covering the braces. In such extreme conditions, your child may need to get their braces removed before the treatment is over as well as have surgery to reduce the swollen gums to clean more properly around the area.
Motivation factors for teenagers!
It is important to identify factors that may motivate your teenager to take care of their oral hygiene more. These include teeth without any stains, straight aligned teeth, fresh-smelling breath, and a painless mouth.
Consult your dentist, Dr. Abid Hidayat, here at the Smile Team in Markham to better understand what your child may need for a healthy mouth and confident smile. We are open Mondays to Saturdays and speak GUJARATI, HINDI, URDU, TAGALOG, and ARABIC. You can contact us here at Markham, ON, by calling 416-546-5599.