If you’re the parent of a teenager, you know how they can bristle at the suggestion of anything childish, like visiting a pediatric dentist. After all, don’t they handle baby teeth? No, not always. Although it may be tempting to transition your teenage child to a general dentist, a pediatric dentist can provide specialized care designed for younger patients.
Here are 4 reasons to consider keeping your teen’s dental care with a pediatric dentist.
1. Pediatric Dentists Understand Teen Dental Development
The teenage years are an important time for oral development. Permanent teeth are still coming in, and wisdom teeth may begin developing. A pediatric dentist has specialized training in children’s dental growth and development and can monitor your teen’s changing smile.
Regular visits allow the dentist to identify potential problems early and determine whether additional treatment, such as orthodontic care, may be beneficial.
2. Teens Have Unique Oral Health Risks
Teenagers may face dental challenges that aren’t as common among younger children or adults. Increased independence can sometimes lead to inconsistent brushing and flossing, while frequent consumption of sugary snacks, sports drinks, and soft drinks can increase the risk of cavities.
Hormonal changes during adolescence can also make the gums more susceptible to inflammation. A pediatric dentist can teach teens how to care for their teeth and gums properly while addressing habits that could put their oral health at risk.
3. Pediatric Dentists Can Help with Sports-Related Injuries
Many teenagers participate in contact or high-impact sports, which can put their teeth at risk of being chipped, cracked, or knocked out. A pediatric dentist can recommend an appropriately fitted mouthguard to help protect your teen’s smile during athletic activities.
If a dental injury does occur, knowing where to turn for prompt care can make a stressful situation easier to manage. Your pediatric dental team can also explain what to do in the event of a dental emergency.
4. They Can Help Teens Build Healthy Habits
The teenage years are an opportunity to establish habits that can last well into adulthood. Pediatric dentists don’t simply treat cavities; they can educate teens about brushing, flossing, nutrition, tobacco avoidance, and other factors that affect oral health.
A pediatric dental office may also be designed with younger patients in mind, helping teens feel more comfortable asking questions and discussing concerns about their teeth.
Your teen’s dental needs don’t stop changing just because they’re getting older. Regular visits with a pediatric dentist can help monitor development, prevent oral health problems, protect teeth during sports, and encourage lifelong healthy habits.
About the Author
A board-certified pediatric dentist practicing in Garland, TX, Dr. Lily earned her dental doctorate at Western University of Health Sciences and completed her pediatric certification at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas. If you have a busy teenager whose oral hygiene has fallen by the wayside, Dr. Lily can provide age-appropriate checkups and cleanings and recommend treatment as needed. Contact her online for an appointment or call (469) 925-0861.