Taking care of your teeth is just as important as taking care of the rest of your body. The teeth not only help you chew your food, they also have an effect on the shape of your face and your overall appearance. Broken teeth, yellow stains, chipped teeth and other dental defects may even affect your self-esteem. Playing sports puts teens at risk for injuries to the teeth and gums. Smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco can stain the teeth and cause painful mouth sores. Brushing and flossing regularly are two of the most important things you can do to take care of your smile.
Dangers of Poor Dental Care
If oral health is neglected, there are several possible consequences. Poor dental care contributes to bad breath and the formation of cavities. If you do not care for your teeth and gums, you may also develop a disease called gingivitis. If the teeth are neglected for a long time, the gums can also recede. This exposes the roots of the teeth and makes them very sore. When teens have these dental problems, they may lose their self-confidence and even their self-respect.
Proper Dental Care
Regular dental care is the best way to prevent serious dental problems. As a teen, you have to fight peer pressure and avoid smoking or chewing tobacco. Brushing twice daily is a good way to remove harmful bacteria from the teeth. Flossing daily is also important, as floss helps remove the bacteria and food particles that cause plaque to build up between the teeth. You should stock your medicine cabinet with several items to make it easier to take care of your teeth. These items include:
- Unwaxed dental floss
- Fluoride toothpaste
- Antiseptic mouthwash
- Soft-bristled toothbrush
If you drink a lot of soda or eat a lot of acidic foods, you may have to change your diet. Researchers from the University of Dundee in Scotland estimate that 41 percent of American children ages 11 to 13 experience dental erosion, making this a significant problem in the United States. Colored sodas contain phosphoric acid, which breaks down tooth enamel. Citrus fruits and other acidic foods also wear away the tooth enamel.
Visiting the dentist regularly is an important part of caring for your teeth. During a dental visit, a hygienist cleans and removes plaque from the teeth. A dentist will also look at the teeth and gums to see if there are any cavities, chipped teeth or other dental problems. If one of these problems is present, the dentist develops a treatment plan to correct the problem. If your teeth are out of alignment, consult an orthodontist to see if braces are an option.
Adolescent Dentition
Dentition refers to the formation and development of the teeth. Teenagers should be very concerned about dentition, as treating problems early reduces the risk of complications later in life. You should take care to maintain the shape and strength of your teeth during your teen years. If you have discolored teeth, consider asking a dentist to bleach and polish them. If you play sports, wear a mouthguard during games and practice sessions. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry estimates that 10 to 39 percent of all dental injuries in children result from participation in sports activities. Make sure your dentist fits you for a mouthguard, as fitted mouthguards provide the best protection against dental sports injuries. If you have any other dental issues, make sure you visit a dentist to get the proper treatment. With healthy oral habits and regular professional dental care, you may be able to prevent cavities, gum disease and other serious dental problems that affect the health of your teeth, gums and jaw.
