Certain habits among the youngest, such as maintaining a little varied diet, smoking, or poor oral hygiene, cause the development of oral diseases that do not correspond to their biological age. But, do you know what are the oral problems and the most frequent treatments in adolescents?
Misaligned smiles
A beautiful smile is our best letter of introduction, so it is necessary to take care of it. However, it is very common for adolescents to have dental malocclusion or crowding. This type of problem, in addition to making the smile ugly, makes oral hygiene difficult, and can even alter the adolescent’s body and postural development.
These problems can be avoided with early detection and treatment with orthodontics.
Periodontal problems and hormonal changes
Hormonal changes related to puberty can increase the risk of developing juvenile periodontitis, an infectious disease characteristic of this stage that occurs in a localized or generalized way. If it is not detected in time, it can cause the loss of dental pieces.
A partial or total tooth breaks
The practice of extreme or contact sports can cause teeth breakage. That is why it is recommended to use mouth protectors that help us protect the teeth in case of an impact.
In addition, the tensions of adolescence cause physiological reactions such as clenching teeth (bruxism) and joint problems, which can cause pain.
Dental erosion
Adolescents tend to have a less balanced diet than adults, consuming more acidic or sugary foods and drinks that further erode teeth. This erosion of the enamel exposes the dentin, leading to pain and tenderness with cold food and drinks.
That is why it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene, brush your teeth three times a day, paying special attention tonight brushing.
Wear by oral piercings
Oral piercings do not go out of style. However, most young people do not know how this decoration can affect their oral health. The wound created by the perforation can increase the risk of oral infections, bleeding, irritation, and retraction of the gums, and even the risk of transmission of certain diseases. They can also damage old fillings and even cause difficulty eating and speaking clearly.
How to convince teens to take care of their mouths?
At this age, parents have trouble keeping teens in optimal hygiene. Not because they cannot do it, but because they are not mature and constant enough to do it effectively. Each age group has its motivations, adolescents, in general, are very sensitive to their personal appearance. Most of those who brush their teeth, do it to avoid getting dirty and not have bad breath, few take care of their mouths to avoid cavities or gum problems. We must earn their attention by hooking dental care with aesthetics since these are the issues that concern them. Inviting them to have healthy teeth to have a beautiful smile, be more attractive as well as have greater confidence and self-esteem.
The dentist can help take preventive self-care measures, such as teaching a correct brushing technique and the use of dental floss, as well as preventing possible oral problems such as those mentioned above. And it is that this stage of life is a moment of risk for oral health, especially due to the lack of interest and commitment on the part of young people.