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The teenage years are full of activity, from school to time with friends and everyday life. Teen dental health is important and should not be overlooked, because small habits such as drinking bubble tea or soda, or skipping brushing before bed, can increase the risk of cavities and gum inflammation. Here are 7 simple ways to care for your teeth that help teens keep strong teeth and smile with confidence.
1. Brush Twice a Day With Fluoride Toothpaste
Brushing is the foundation of oral care. Brush at least twice a day for about 2 minutes each time, especially before bed, and choose a fluoride toothpaste to help prevent cavities.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush every surface of the teeth and along the gumline, without pressing too hard.
2. Floss Every Day: Don’t Assume Brushing Is Enough
Even if you brush regularly, the bristles may not reach between the teeth, which is where plaque builds up easily.
Using dental floss at least once a day, or a suitable interdental cleaning tool, helps remove plaque between the teeth and reduces the risk of cavities and gum inflammation.
3. Cut Back on Bubble Tea, Soda and Sweet Drinks
Drinks popular among teens, such as bubble tea, soda and energy drinks, can be high in sugar, while some are acidic, which increases the risk of cavities and enamel erosion.
Drink them less often, choose less-sweet options, and make plain water your main drink, especially between meals.
4. Keep Your Teeth Extra Clean During Orthodontic Treatment
Teens with fixed braces can easily get food stuck around the brackets and wires, so cleaning thoroughly is important.
We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush together with an interdental brush and floss designed for braces to reduce plaque buildup around the appliances.
For those with clear aligners, remove the aligners before eating and clean your teeth before putting them back in, as advised by your dentist.
5. Don’t Use Your Teeth to Bite Hard Objects or Open Things
Biting your nails, chewing ice or using your teeth to open packaging can chip or crack teeth, or damage your braces.
In addition, teens who play sports with a risk of impact, such as basketball, football or martial arts, should wear a suitable mouthguard to reduce the risk of injury.
6. Don’t Ignore Crowded, Crooked or Misaligned Teeth
Crowded teeth, protruding teeth or a poor bite can, in some cases, affect confidence and how well the mouth can be cleaned.
If your teeth are not well aligned or you have trouble biting and chewing, you should get an assessment. The dentist may consider orthodontic options such as metal braces or Invisalign clear aligners, depending on each person’s suitability.
7. Get Regular Dental Check-Ups, Even Without Pain
Early-stage cavities and gum disease may not have obvious symptoms. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to detect problems and plan care early.
You should have check-ups and scaling at the intervals your dentist recommends, based on each person’s oral health and cavity risk.
Keep Your Teen Smile Confident With TDH Dental
Strong teeth and a confident smile start with daily oral care, including brushing, food choices and regular dental check-ups.
At TDH Dental, you can consult our experienced dental team to assess your teeth and gums and plan age-appropriate care, including orthodontic options such as Invisalign and TDH SmartBraces, depending on each person’s suitability.
Because a confident smile starts with healthy teeth every day.
