If you have a teen in the house, you will already know they are always busy with schoolwork, college and friends and hobbies. When they were younger, it was easier in some ways to make sure they cared for their oral health properly, but good dental care is just as important now your kid is growing up, and especially if they are currently having orthodontic treatment in Oshawa.
Self-conscious teens want to look their best, so gently remind them of dental care benefits that include fresh breath, a brighter smile and a reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Diet is another important part of this equation and can be an issue if your teen is in the habit of grabbing food on the go, and where their choices might be less than healthy and on the sugary side of things.
What Happens to Teeth When You Eat Something Sugary?
While sugary foods can give a welcome burst of energy, acidity in the mouth increases for up to an hour afterwards. This is because the sugars are used by the bacteria in dental plaque for energy, and acid is produced as a by-product. When anyone eats sugary foods frequently, the mouth remains acidic for longer, and these acids erode tooth enamel, weakening it and eventually causing cavities.
It is the same problem with acidic beverages like sports, drinks and soda. Encourage your teen to continue drinking milk and water, and it can be a good idea to purchase them a refillable water bottle. Another good choice is sugar-free tea, as this contains fluoride. If they want a soda, make sure they use a straw as this reduces the amount of contact the sugary or acidic fluid can make with their teeth.
Making Healthier Food Choices
Ensure your fridge and pantry are stocked with tooth-friendly foods that your teen can grab and go if needed. Good choices include rice cakes, hard cheese, plain yogurt, nuts and popcorn. When buying cereal, choose an unsweetened variety. Other good food choices include raw fruits and vegetables and fresh soup, and plain bagels for colder winter days.
Protecting Their Teeth While Playing Sports
If your child loves to play sports, it’s probably a healthy habit that you want to encourage while making sure their teeth and gums are protected. An unexpected blow to their mouth can damage their adult teeth or, even worse, knock out a tooth entirely, leaving them with a lifetime of costly restorative dental bills. Instead, ask us about custom-fitted mouthguards next time you visit Margolian Dentistry in Whitby. A custom-fitted mouthguard is the best way to protect teeth, and because it’s comfortable to wear, your kid is more likely to use it. Also, custom mouthguards come in a wide range of colours and designs, so your teen can match their mouthguard to their favourite team colours.
Maintaining a Good Dental Care Regime
If your teen is out and about a lot, pack them a small dental kit so they can freshen up wherever they are. Include a soft-bristled toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, a small bottle of water and perhaps a travel-sized mouthwash to freshen breath. If you do include mouthwash, try to choose a brand that is antibacterial and alcohol-free. It’s not always possible to brush your teeth when you are away from home, so another thing they can do is chew sugar-free gum, promoting saliva production, reducing acidity in the mouth more quickly. Regular dental visits with our Ajax dentist are critically important so we can monitor their dental health closely.
