Oral health will be just one bullet point on list of many, many things you’ll worry about when it comes to your teen. Things like dating and driving probably need to be pretty high up on that list because they carry a lot of serious risks, but oral health should also be of importance to parents because teens are exposed to many hazards relative to that age group. For the concerned mother and/or father, we spent some time this week thinking of some solid ways you can ensure you keep your teen’s mouth in top shape. Here are our top three:
1. Talk to Your Teens about The Dangers of Smoking
According to the American Lung Association, about 70% of adult smokers started smoking before they were 18. Most adult smokers try their first cigarette around the age of 11, and most say they were hooked by about 14. Yes, your teen will be bombarded with anti-smoking messages and campaigns their entire childhood, but you still need to be the one to tell them about how dangerous it really is. Take time to educate yourself, and have a serious talk about smoking with your teen—yes, even if you yourself choose to smoke. We recommend talking to your kid much earlier than his or her teens, of course, but it’s always a good idea to revisit this message or deliver it before the peer pressure and hard choices are piled on.
2. Talk to Your Teen about Sugary and Starchy Foods
Although your teen may magically not gain any weight from snacking on chips and soda, sugary and starchy snacks will wreak havoc on their oral health. Do yourself a favor as a parent and monitor your teen’s intake of these types of foods as much as you are able. Try to encourage healthier snacks like fruits, nuts, and yogurt. We highly encourage raw, fibrous vegetables like carrots and celery if possible because they also help clean the surfaces of the teeth.
3. If Your Teen is Active, Talk to Your Dentist about a Mouthguard
For many teens, athletic involvement is a big part of growing up. For some, it’s a way of life and a good shot at going to college. If your teen plays sports, be aware that they’re at a much higher risk for damage to their teeth, face, lips, and jaw. There are several different options ranging in price and comfort for solid mouth protection. Your dentist can cover these options with you and may even offer custom-fit mouthguards.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope our short list of teen-specific dental concerns gets you thinking about some of the overlooked dangers your teen will face. If you enjoy our dental tips, facts, and news, please like our Facebook page and help us spread the word about great oral health!