Teens are particularly sensitive about their appearance. An unsightly smile can adversely affect their self-esteem, causing them embarrassment and often preventing them from participating fully in the activities important at their age. Convincing your teen to see your Boulder cosmetic dentist is an important first step in providing them with a beautiful smile.
A thorough exam that includes x-rays and a full dental history will generally occur on that first visit. This will allow the dentist to assess the issues present and discuss a plan with you and your teen to rectify them. If your son or daughter has failed to maintain good dental hygiene habits, this will likely be an important part of the discussion. Even if they had been diligent when they were younger, teens often become lax in their oral hygiene during their teenage years. For some, its because they have a much busier schedule, but for others it may just be a bit of laziness on their part.
Often, teens do not listen as well to parents as when they were younger. The dentist may provide some tips as reminders for them that will eliminate that struggle. Keeping oral hygiene tools in plain sight, such as toothbrushes, paste, floss and even a timer, can serve as a quiet reminder. Ensuring that their diet at home is nutritional will help to at least minimize the harm to teeth and gums caused by those sugary and starchy foods that teens are so fond of. If they like to chew gum, buy only the sugarless brands. This helps to keep the mouth clean after meals. For snacks around the house, stick to healthy ones such as fruits and vegetables, with no tempting sugars, chips, etc.
Ensuring that your son or daughter continues to receive regular checkups and cleanings is an absolute essential in caring for their dental health. Dentists today are generally very accommodating to the busy schedules of people, providing evening or even Saturday hours. Maintaining these visits will allow the dentist to be able to spot and care for problems before they become serious.
Some issues may be more than your family dentist can adequately care for, such as orthodontic care. If braces or other orthodontic care is needed, your dentist will likely provide you with a referral to an experienced specialist. It is important, however, to continue having them visit the regular dentist while their teeth are being straightened. The dentist and the orthodontist can then work hand-in-hand to provide excellent results.
Many teens today are experimenting mouth piercings. If possible, have them talk to the dentist before receiving any piercings. Oral piercings have been associated with various infections and even nerve damage. Though teens view them as cool they can be the cause of many problems.
Meeting the needs of teen dental health can be a bit tricky for parents. With a little patience and cooperation with your family dentist, they can enjoy excellent dental health that can last throughout their life.