Top dental health tips for teens

Good dental health proves critical during teenage years, when an attractive smile is important when making new friends. Along with its role in socialization, good oral hygiene is also a must to avoid dental decay, which is one of the most common chronic issues in young people from ages 5 to 17. Here are some tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy as a teen, straight from renowned dentist Dr. Kami Hoss. Wear a mouth guard during sports Oral injuries can be the result of contact sports, so prevent them by wearing a mouthguard while playing. It can be custom-fitted by your dentist or bought ready-made at a nearby store, and you can keep it clean through regular cleaning. Consume healthy snacks, no matter how busy life gets Teens are prone to snacking on sweet treats and “nutrition” bars in between school activities and their social life. But they should also have quick access to snacks such as vegetable sticks and pure, clear water, instead of just sodas and sweet beverages. Acidic foods and fizzy drinks are bad news, as they cause dental erosion.

Go easy on cigarettes and alcohol Smoking can lead to stained teeth, gum disease, as well as tooth loss. Both smoking and alcohol drinks can cause mouth cancer, and doing them both can increase your risk. Ask your dentist about improving your smile If you’re unhappy with your orofacial appearance and feel self-conscious about your teeth, you can ask your dentist about corrective treatment or wearing dental braces. How long you need to wear braces depends on the severity of the problem, although most people can address it in 1 to 2 years, adds Dr. Kami Hoss. Kami Hoss, MS, DDS is the CEO of The Super Dentists, the largest pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice in San Diego. He is also the chief executive of Acceledontics and Howard Healthcare Academy. Read more on this site.