In the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, it was found that 59% of adolescents ages 12-19 had cavities in their permanent teeth. Dental caries, or cavities, are the most common oral health problem even though they’re 100% preventable. As a parent, keeping your young one’s smile healthy and bright is one of your top priorities. Your pediatric dentist lets you in on the top 3 cavity-causing activities that your teen may be doing. Read on to learn what they are and how to fight cavities with proper dental care.
Poor Oral Hygiene Routine
One of the easiest ways for your teen to avoid cavities is by establishing a good dental hygiene routine. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that everybody brushes twice a day for two minutes and flosses. It’s also a good idea for your child to rinse with mouthwash to get rid of extra bacteria. When food debris, plaque, and bacteria are left to buildup on their teeth, it can erode their enamel and leave them susceptible to developing infections and cavities.
It’s important that your teen remembers to not only brush the surface of their teeth, but their tongue, cheeks, and the back of their teeth. Leaving these areas neglected can cause their mouth to become a breeding ground for bacteria.
Consuming Too Much Sugar
As young kids, sweets are sometimes the most satisfying after-school snacks, but they’re also the main cause of tooth decay. Why is that? Harmful bacteria feed off of sugar and creates acid that can destroy tooth enamel. By limiting the amount of sugar that your child eats, you can help keep their enamel strong and prevent cavities. Also, reducing carbs like bread and potato chips can help lessen the number of bacteria found in their mouth. Avoiding fruit juice, sports drinks, sodas, and any high-sugar snacks is a great place to start.
Not Drinking Enough Water
Instead of fueling bacteria buildup by drinking fruit juice and soda, have your child drink water. Water is one of the best things they can consume to maintain a healthy smile. Saliva and water are vital components in keeping away cavities. Each time they rinse or swish with it, they’re ridding their mouth of plaque, tartar, and bacteria. Avoiding dry mouth is a great way to keep their enamel strong and reduce the risk of infections and cavities.
Fighting Cavities
Visiting a dentist for teens is the best way to help fight off oral health problems and keep your child’s smile healthy and happy. Routine checkups and cleanings allow your son or daughter to tackle any small oral health problems before they progress and become unmanageable. Give them a cavity-free smile that will last a lifetime by encouraging the best dental practices.
About the Author
Dr. Lily works with children up to the age of 18 to help them maintain a bright and healthy smile into college. She understands that between juggling their friends and grades, oral hygiene can sometimes be put on the backburner. Her goal is to provide every teenager with individualized treatment that gives them the confidence to flash their smiles. For any questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Shiny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry’s website or contact 469