Common Dental Issues for Teenagers and How to Address Them
Teenagers experience rapid physical changes as they progress through adolescence. Amidst all these changes, dental health can sometimes fall by the wayside, leading to specific challenges unique to this age group. For parents, understanding these common dental issues and how to effectively address them is crucial to ensuring their teen develops healthy oral habits that last a lifetime.
At Wasatch Pediatric Dentistry in Providence, UT, we specialize in addressing dental concerns for teenagers with care and expertise. Below, we’ve compiled a helpful guide for parents to identify and manage the most frequent dental problems teens face.
Why Teen Dental Health Matters
Teenage years are critical for building the foundation of long-term oral health. Between braces, new dietary habits, and the occasional love for sugary snacks, their teeth and gums face unique risks. Being proactive about dental care during this time can help your teen avoid painful procedures or chronic issues as they age.
Common Dental Issues in Teenagers
1. Cavities (Tooth Decay)
Teenagers often indulge in sugary drinks and snacks, which can lead to cavities due to the build-up of plaque and acid. According to the CDC, over 57% of teenagers have had cavities in their permanent teeth. This makes cavity prevention one of the most pressing dental concerns for this age group.
What Parents Can Do:
Encourage teens to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Limit sugary drinks like sodas or energy drinks.
Make flossing a daily habit—it helps prevent plaque buildup between teeth.
Schedule regular dental exams so any early signs of decay can be addressed.
2. Gum Disease (Gingivitis)
Poor brushing and flossing habits can lead to inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis. Left untreated, this can progress to more severe gum disease, which may cause gum recession, bad breath, and even tooth loss.
What Parents Can Do:
Reinforce the importance of thorough brushing and flossing.
Look for symptoms like red, swollen gums or bleeding while brushing.
Schedule a dental cleaning every six months to remove plaque buildup.
3. Wisdom Teeth Growth
Between the ages of 17 and 21, wisdom teeth make their debut—and they don’t always arrive pain-free! Impacted or overcrowded wisdom teeth can cause discomfort, infections, and misalignments in an otherwise healthy smile.
What Parents Can Do:
Schedule x-rays to monitor your teen’s wisdom teeth development.
Discuss wisdom tooth removal options if overcrowding or impaction is suspected.
4. Sports-related Dental Injuries
Active teens participating in sports like basketball, soccer, or wrestling are at risk for chipped or knocked-out teeth due to accidents on the field or court. A proper mouthguard is not just a bonus—it’s essential protection.
What Parents Can Do:
Invest in a custom-fitted mouthguard from your dentist for added comfort and protection.
Remind your teen to wear their mouthguard during both practice sessions and games.
5. Teeth Whitening Concerns
Many teens become self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth, especially in the age of selfies and social media. This often leads to interest in over-the-counter whitening kits, which may not always be safe for young enamel.
What Parents Can Do:
Consult your dentist for professional, teen-safe whitening options.
Help your teen understand that good hygiene must come before cosmetic treatments.
How Wasatch Pediatric Dentistry Can Help
At Wasatch Pediatric Dentistry in Providence, UT, we understand the unique dental needs of teenagers. Our dedicated team offers a range of services designed to address these challenges with care and professionalism. From preventive cleanings to orthodontic consultations, we are here to guide your teenager toward a healthy and confident smile.
Some key benefits of choosing Wasatch Pediatric Dentistry include:
Customized Care Plans: We tailor our recommendations based on your teen’s specific needs.
Friendly Environment: Teens feel welcomed and comfortable during their visit.
Expert Team: Our experienced dentists are skilled at handling both routine and complex dental concerns.