Written By Kassandra Foreman / Reviewed By Ray Spotts
The busy lives of teenagers may mean they don’t focus as much on oral hygiene as they should, however, there are some very easy ways to encourage them to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Keeping oral hygiene supplies readily available, setting a good example, and helping to build regular habits are all great ways to help teens maintain oral care. It’s also be helpful to gently remind them of the risks involved in not taking proper care of teeth and gums, such as tooth pain and tooth loss, cavities, and teeth staining.
Teen Brushing And Flossing
Just like children and adults, teens should be brushing twice a day and flossing at least once each day. Choosing a flavoured toothpaste or floss - such as mint or cinnamon - makes it more enticing for them.
Early formed habits are more likely to stay during the teen and adult years, and allowing options for preferred toothpaste and floss, as well as letting them choose a toothbrush they like, will encourage them to brush regularly.
Mouthguards And Piercings For Teen Oral Care
The teen years also include more activities and contact sports. At this stage a mouthguard should be encouraged to protect the teeth from any damage or impacts.
It is also a time that many will consider mouth piercings, such as lip or tongue piercings. These piercings can be damaging to teeth and this should be considered before any piercing is done. While piercings may be fashionable they can cause permanent damage and even lead to tooth loss in the future.
Teen Oral Care Decisions
While they are growing into themselves teens may also be tempted to try smoking, and this can cause both stains and teeth weakening. It is important that teens have all the information needed to make informed decisions about things such as mouth guards, piercings, and smoking.
As teens proceed towards adulthood, they may be taking on more responsibilities, but it is still important to ensure that all dental appointments are made and attended.
They may not remember to book their own appointments so it’s important to maintain reminders and encourage attendance, perhaps even making appointments for several family members on the same day or times to remove the transportation concerns to attend these appointments.
Teenagers are ready for more responsibility but are also trying new activities and busier than ever. Guiding them through proper oral care and hygiene now will help form habits that will keep their teeth healthy throughout their life.
Looking for a 100% all-natural liquid tooth oil and mouth rinse? Check out OraMD Original Strength and OraMD Extra Strength. Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral health and skincare. If you are looking for more health resources make sure to check out the Trusted Health Resources list.
Written By:
Kassandra Foreman has been writing freelance for five years now and enjoys learning about new things to write about. When not writing she teaches yoga and meditation with a focus on health and fitness.
Reviewed By:
Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.
Photo by Laura Andreuccetti on Unsplash