Your teen isn’t a child anymore and is capable of taking care of their own teeth on a daily basis. But even if they diligently brush once per day and floss twice per day, they’re not “too old” for the dentist! Pediatric dentists don’t just have specialized training for treating infants and young children – they’re also trained to recognize unique oral needs that can develop between the ages of 13 and 19.
Keep reading to learn why regular dental visits are just as beneficial for teens as they are anyone else.
Checkups & Cleanings Are Preventive
One thing that doesn’t change with age is the preventive power of regular checkup and cleaning appointments.
Studies show that having a checkup and cleaning every six months significantly decreases the risk of oral conditions like cavities and gum disease. This is because dentists have special training and tools for eliminating hardened plaque that can’t be removed with at-home hygiene. It also gives the dentist a chance to examine and monitor the state of your teen’s mouth, which is important because…
Teens Sometimes Have Specialized Needs
Your kiddo’s teeth don’t stop developing at 13! In fact, they likely won’t have a fully-developed dental lineup until their early 20’s. Teens can develop unique needs related to wisdom teeth and orthodontics, and it’s best to take care of these issues sooner than later. A pediatric dentist can keep an eye out for concerning changes and give you a referral to a specialist if necessary.
New Tips for Developing Smiles
You’re not alone when it comes to educating your teen on how to best take care of their developing smile. Pediatric dentists are skilled at communicating the importance of oral hygiene and other good dental habits to young patients. As professionals, they can also give your teen personalized tips that take their unique and evolving dental needs into consideration.
Clearly, there’s no such thing as being “too old” to visit the dentist!
About the Author
As a board-certified pediatric dentist and parent, Dr. Lily is well-qualified to help teens in Garland maintain good oral health. Whether that involves simply providing biannual checkups and cleanings or creating a 100% personalized treatment plan, she’ll make sure your teen feels comfortable during appointments and is empowered to take good care of their smile for years to come. To contact Dr. Lily’s office and schedule a visit, call 469-925-0861.