Straight Talk About Teen Teeth From Pediatric Dentists

Just like adolescents, teenaged teeth can be difficult. Teens often face improper tooth growth, wisdom teeth problems, and various stages of dental decay. To help teens take care of teeth, discover their dental concerns and cures.

3 Main Types of Braces

Braces are used to correct or prevent problems involving crooked, crowded, or missing teeth, overbite, underbite, jaw joint disorders, and jaw misalignment. Braces are typically worn in the teen years, but more and more adults and younger children are getting braces today. Kids dentists are often the first to detect dental problems and will refer patients to a specialist called an orthodontist. Realize that braces can be pricey, so if cost is a concern, look for an orthodontist from an affordable family dentistry practice who can work within needs and budget. After a full evaluation, an orthodontist can recommend the right treatment. The three main types of braces are:

1. Metal bands that cover the teeth and wrap around back molars.
2. Brackets that are attached to the back of teeth so they are not visible.
3. Brackets that are attached to the front of teeth, which are available in plastic or metal, as well as tooth-colored or clear.

Consider Removal of Wisdom Teeth

The third molars, commonly called wisdom teeth, typically come in by age 21. The problem with wisdom teeth is that they often come in improperly and do damage to nearby teeth. If this occurs, they need to be removed immediately to prevent pain, pressure on other teeth, plaque build-up, gum disease, and jaw disorders. Pediatric dentists or oral surgeons will often remove these teeth at the first sign of trouble.

Defend Against Dental Decay

When dental decay is not regularly removed through brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, it can build up on teeth and attack tooth enamel. This creates cavities. While parents worry about cavities in younger children, kids dentists warn that the threat continues during adolescence when teens fail to take care of their teeth.  For the best defense against dental decay:

• Brush at least twice a day and floss once a day.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste.
• Stay away from acidic or sugary foods and drinks.
• Get routine check-ups and cleanings at an affordable family dentistry practice.

Avoid Periodontal Disease

The most serious types of gum disease are periodontal diseases. Cavities only impact the teeth, while periodontal diseases harm the surrounding gums, soft tissue, and bone. Research shows that nearly 50% of adolescents have periodontal disease. While pediatric dentists may be the first to detect the problem, they often refer patients to a specialist called a periodontist for treatment.  If left untreated, periodontal disease can ravage the gums, dissolve the bone, and cause teeth to fall out. The most common causes include:

• Plaque caused by food particles trapped in teeth and gums.
• Poor dental hygiene.
• Diet lacking proper nutrients.
• Teeth grinding.
• Smoking.
• Hormonal changes, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and some medications.

Various treatments are available for periodontal disease. But teens first need to get a full examination at an affordable family dentistry practice or kids dentist to determine the best treatment for their teeth.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in Owings Mills, call Valley Dental Associates today at (443) 898-1240 or make an appointment.