The challenges you and your teen face may be vastly different. You might be worried about deadlines for work, while they may be stressing about an upcoming test. Regardless, you likely want to do your best to support them as they grow up. One way that you can is by making sure their smile is in great shape and isn’t something that adds to the pile of things they are stressed about. Here are four problems that can affect their grin and how to help them avoid any issues.
1.) Wisdom Teeth Can Cause Trouble
Wisdom teeth come in much later than the rest, erupting between the ages of 17 and 25. While they may not cause trouble for some, for others, they might. It’s possible they erupt at an angle or don’t push past the gumline at all. This can lead to discomfort, oral health issues, and misalignment if left untreated. By having their pediatric dentist take a look, you can ensure your teen can avoid complications.
2.) They Can Get Dental-Related Injuries from Sports
Sports and other physical activities your loved one does may increase their risk of a facial blow. It’s important they follow proper safety protocols, including wearing a mouthguard. This is a customized oral appliance that absorbs impacts that hit their smile, helping prevent chips and cracks.
3.) Habits and Outside Pressures Can Affect Them
Your teen might cram for a test and stay up later than they should. They might have energy drinks throughout this time to keep them up, but these beverages can affect their oral health. The sugar and acidity in them can weaken their enamel and cause cavities. It’s also possible they clench their teeth if they are stressed, which can lead to increased wear.
Social media can connect your loved one to their friends, but it can also expose them to unrealistic beauty standards. They might see the picture-perfect grins their favorite celebrities or influencers have and feel down about their own smile. They might try harmful DIY hacks that can cause more trouble than good.
4.) Vapes, E-Cigarettes, and Tobacco Usage
While this topic may not be as exciting to hear, it’s still a reality for many teens. It’s possible they might want to experiment with things like smoking. Whether it’s tobacco, e-cigarettes, or vapes, they can impact their gums. These habits can lead to infection, inflammation, stains, and even oral cancer. To help your loved one avoid them, have a serious talk with them. Let them know the possible complications so they can make choices that don’t harm their oral health.
In the end, these are just some dental challenges your teen may face. Keep them in mind, and you can help them through each one toward a stronger smile.
About the Author
Dr. Bryce Cushing earned his dental degree from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. He then completed his pediatric residency at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Dr. Bryce is happy to help growing grins in the Papillion community become stronger through a wide range of treatments. That way, your loved one can build good oral habits that they stick to well into adulthood. If it’s time for your teen’s next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Bryce’s office at (402) 773-7873.