Teen Dentistry

For our teen patients...

 

Newsflash:

You can still get cavities as a teenager! Surprisingly, you may have more decay (cavities) as a teen than when you were younger. A healthy diet, great oral hygiene and routine check-ups can reduce the chances of getting more cavities.

 

It’s no secret that teens’ eating habits can include soda, fruit drinks, candies, snacks, and fast food. Every day, you make crucial decisions about what to eat or drink and when to do so; by now, you’ve probably been told many times that eating patterns directly affect not only your overall health but your oral health as well.

 

Eating habits tied to good oral health include eating fruits and vegetables and drinking plenty of milk and water. These contain less of the sugar that bacteria need to create cavities. Also, try to eat sugary foods only with a large meal.

 

Constant snacking increases these bacterial levels dramatically in your mouth. These bacteria in turn release acids as they consume the sugars that remain in your mouth after a snack. The acids produced by the bacteria destroy little bits of your enamel, and eventually a cavity forms.

Cavities can be painful, unsightly and can cause bad breath. Who wants to go to middle school or high school with stained teeth and bad breath?

 

Here’s a quick roundup of the simple steps you can take to avoid that terrible fate: You've heard it your entire life: EAT WELL. Include fruits, vegetables, milk, cheese and nuts in your diet. Also, water, water and more water!

 

• Snack less and always rinse with water afterward.

• Brush your teeth twice daily and floss prior to bedtime. (If you can text, you should have the skills to be an expert flosser!) Keep up with re-care appointments in our office every six months. Routine cleanings and regular fluoride varnish treatments are the keys to a great preventive program. We can also advise you on the right toothbrushes, toothpaste, tooth gels and fluoride rinse.

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When it comes to your teeth and oral health, what you do (or don't do) now will affect you the rest of your life!  Everyone wants white teeth!