It’s hard for a young child to understand why brushing teeth before bedtime is really that important. But parents know that good habits developed during early childhood can continue long into life. Dental care for teenagers is shaped by keeping up with these habits, and is the very best way for a teenager to have teeth that are healthy and clean. Brush teeth two times a day with an ADA approved toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. Do this to stop a build up of plaque developing. Floss once a day to remove plaque from underneath the gum line and in the tight spaces between teeth. For regular cleanings and check ups, visit a local certified dentist.
The number one cause of gum disease and tooth decay is plaque. If allowed to build up, plaque will harden into a hard, yellow tartar that is unsightly and not good for your teeth. By simply removing plaque daily, teenagers can direct themselves away from this fate. Most teenagers will find that avoiding yellow tartar is viable incentive to brush their teeth.
So what does having good oral hygiene really mean? Good oral hygiene means that your mouth looks, smells, and feels healthy. This includes teeth that are clean, a mouth that is free of debris, gums that are pink, and an absence of pain or blood when brushing and flossing. Teenagers experiencing problems with any of these indicators should see a dentist to prevent lasting damage to gums and teeth.
There are many reasons why keeping up with healthy oral hygiene habits is worthwhile for teenagers. Not only does it keep teeth alive, but it also keeps them fully functional so that you can eat and speak. Plus, teenagers who have a mouth that is hygienically well feel and look better. With fresh breath and white teeth, confidence radiates from a clean mouth.
The best way for teenagers to keep their teeth long into life is by exercising good oral hygiene habits every day. Daily preventive care will stop problems before they become expensive and painful. Do this simply by using proper brushing and flossing techniques. Eating a balanced diet, limiting snacking, and rinsing with fluoride will also help you keep good dental health.
Besides brushing and flossing, there are a number of things a teenager can do to keep their teeth alive and their mouth healthy. It’s important for teenagers to know their personal oral needs. That means accounting for the amount and type of saliva produced regularly, what he or she eats daily, his or her health, hygiene routine, and overall health.
To keep good dental health, there are a few important things teenagers can avoid. Number one is snacks and snacking in general, especially on treats that are sugary and sticky. These sweets will stick around teeth and on chewing surfaces, providing fuel for the bacteria that makes up plaque. Plaque will break down a tooth’s enamel with acid, and can cause a cavity. By brushing or chewing sugarless gum after eating sugary snacks, teenagers can reduce their risk of cavities by reducing the amount of time their teeth are exposed to such strong acidity. Teenagers who use tobacco should stop because it causes gingivitis, tooth decay, oral cancer, and bad breath.
Changes in a teenager’s own mouth are much easier for him or her to notice than for the dentist London Ontario to notice. While a dentist only reviews your mouth a few times per year, you have the opportunity to look inside of your mouth every day. Performing regular self-examinations will help teenagers stay aware of developing problems. Some concerning changes to look for include chipped teeth, discolored teeth, and lesions or sores in the cheek, tongue, or gums.
A Local London Ontario dentist is dedicated to providing professional dental services, care and understanding patients’ needs.