Oral Care for Adolescents

The transition from childhood to adulthood can be challenging in many ways – including knowing how to take proper care of your teeth and gums. While brushing and flossing are important at any age, getting a teen to follow an appropriate dental hygiene plan can be a struggle.

If you’re wondering how to get your adolescent to practice better oral hygiene, here are a few tips to follow.

1. Avoid Buying Junk Food

Teenagers seem to love consuming junk food and sugary sodas. In order to prevent cavities, avoid buying junk food for your teen. Instead, keep healthy fruits and vegetables available at home for them to snack on. Present junk food as a treat, not a regular food group.

2. Talk About Long-Term Consequences

Once teeth have been stained or yellowed, it can be difficult to get the color removed without whitening treatments or procedures. Talk to your teen about the long-term consequences of not practicing proper oral hygiene, including bad breath and discoloration. Let them know that what they do now will matter in the following years.

3. Set a Good Example

When it comes to raising teenagers, you need to practice what you preach. If you’re constantly telling your teen to floss without doing it yourself, they’re not going to believe it is truly important. If you want your teen to develop the right habits, be sure you’re doing them yourself.

4. Stay Stocked with Supplies

Don’t give your teen any reason not to brush or floss. Keep a stockpile of extra toothbrushes, floss, and plastic flossers in your bathroom. You should also purchase toothpaste and mouthwash for them to use.

5. Discuss the Dangers of Smoking

You always want to discourage your teen from smoking. Make sure they know the dangers of smoking cigarettes, but also let them know how smoking can hurt their teeth and gums. Chewing tobacco can also be incredibly harmful for oral hygiene.

It’s also important that your teen have regular visits to the dentist. If they’re in need of a cleaning or checkup, contact Dr. Anderson’s Kansas City, MO cosmetic dentistry office today. Give us a call at 816.454.3336 to schedule your next appointment.