How Teens Can Mind Their Mouths
Did you know that the most common chronic disease in kids between the ages of five and 17 is dental decay? And while parents regularly take younger children to see a kids dentist, teens often take control of their time and are too busy to take care of their teeth. To help teens make time for their teeth, here are some quick dental dos and don'ts from pediatric dentists.
Sip Soda Smarter
Today, teens are reaching for soft drinks much more often than ever. These drinks may quench their thirst, but the acids and sugars are eating away at their delicate tooth enamel. After years of slurping soda, many teens have serious dental problems and are forced to seek major treatment at affordable family dentistry practices. Since it’s unlikely that teens will completely stop sipping, pediatric dentists recommend that they try to reduce the amount they drink, sip through a straw to curb contact with teeth, and rinse with water after drinking.
Play with Precaution
Teens tend to play contact sports, but may not be aware that they’re playing with fire since contact sports can cause injuries to the teeth, mouth, and jaw. But athletic teens can shield their smiles by getting a mouth guard to wear during sports. Teens can get these with little cost or effort at an affordable family dentistry practice. But teens must remember to care for these guards by rinsing them often and storing them properly.
Just Say No to Oral Piercings
Tongue piercing is a top teen trend, despite its pain and problems. Tongue piercings can cause teens to chip their teeth while eating, talking, and sleeping. When these chips turn into fractures, then pediatric dentists often need to perform a root canal or extract the damaged tooth. The most common complaint is infections, which can cause the tongue to get badly swollen and lead to diseases like hepatitis. That’s why pediatric dentists strongly warn against pursuing these piercings.
Develop Healthy Habits
Teens don’t always get proper nutrition since they live on fast food and energy bars. Busy teens may have a lot to do, but they also have a lot to lose by not eating a well-balanced diet. In addition to harming their overall health, the habits can hurt their dental health. But rather than let bad foods eat away at their teeth, teens need to develop good habits. These can include:
- Having healthy snacks in easy reach, such as fruits, veggies, and low-fat cheeses.
- Storing a travel-sized toothbrush and mini toothpaste in a backpack, locker, or handbag so it’s convenient to brush after meals and snacks.
- Chewing sugarless gum after eating to help cleanse the mouth.
- Drinking water all day long to rinse away bacteria and food debris.
To learn about our family dentistry practice in Michigan, call Gentle Dental of Michigan today at or make an appointment.
Gentle Dental of Michigan offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Michigan. With 4 affiliated practices throughout Michigan, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Gentle Dental of Michigan, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Gentle Dental of Michigan.
