5 Oral Hygiene Reminders Needed for Your Adolescents Healthy Smile
5 Oral Hygiene Reminders Needed for Your Adolescents Healthy Smile
As parents we focus on the teaching our young children healthy habits like brushing your teeth daily, but often times our adolescents and teens need a reminder on dental health and hygiene. According to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, recent data has shown that 75% of teens have bleeding gums and 13% have a cavity that has not be treated.
Dental hygiene is an important lifetime habit to ensure a good health. Here are a few important items that young adults should consider for their oral health.
Brushing and Flossing
Brushing and flossing 2 x daily is the very best way to prevent cavities. When you eat and drink sugary foods and beverages, have braces or a family history of tooth decay, you run a higher risk of cavities. Cavities left untreated may cause pain, infection or loss of a tooth. Daily dental habits of brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing is a great way to prevent cavities.
Mouth Guards
Wearing a protective mouthguard when participating in sports is a great help in preventing injuries to your mouth, teeth and can also be a concussion preventative. Custom-fit dental mouthguards offer great protection and decrease the risk of dental trauma.
Smoking, Vaping and Use of Tobacco Products
The use any tobacco products are put one at risk of numerous health ailments, possibly brain development of young adults. In addition, tobacco causes bad breath, tooth staining, desensitizing of taste buds, more sores, gum diseases, and possible oral cancers. Tobacco is best avoided.
Oral Piercings
Foreign objects in your mouth can lead to infections and damage to your teeth and gums. If you are considering an oral piercing make sure that the item is of surgical grade stainless steel.
The object should be cleaned after meals to prevent bacteria growth that may lead to infection and bad breadth.
Nutrition
Healthy nutrition is important at any age. A poor diet can lead to tooth decay, bone loss surrounding your teeth. Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia lead to tooth enamel erosion, oral infections and swollen glands. Eat a well-balanced diet, drink water and milk to keep your mouth and body fit.
Parents and guardians can set a good example by adhering to good oral hygiene practices. Schedule regular check-ups with your family dentist to keep your body, mind and smile healthy! Plainsboro Dental Care offers dental services for every member of your family. Call now to schedule 609-799-4422.