Teenagers and teeth
Teenagers may look like adults but research (and experience) tells us that until you reach the age of about 23 years you are not likely to make decisions based on long term goals and consequences.
Your teenagers may complain about you now but that can be the consequence of good parenting.
Important reminders for parents of teenagers
- Establish good habit now: Arrange for regular dental checkups (6 monthly), Make sure they have a toothbrush for camps and when they go away, Check their supply of toothpaste!
- Orthodontics: Find out the options for straightening teeth. You don't have to undertake treatment but it is important to know what can be done.
- Mouthguards: Mouthguard must be worn if your teenager plays a contact sport or any sport where their mouth may get knocked.This applies to training as well. A fitted mouthguard from your dentist offers the best protection. Many different colours are available.
- Diet: Teenagers often move outside your dietary control. Remind them about the risks of acid foods and sports drinks. Teenagers are often a contradiction of extreme dietary decisions.
- Wisdom teeth: From the ages of about 16 to 25 the third molar tooth may start to move into the mouth. Often not enough room is present for them to fit without damage. Have a dental checkup to see whether wisdom teeth need future removal.
Revised: 9 October 2018
