Teens and Oral Health

During the teenage years, kids seem to go one way or the other when it comes to hygiene: either they become obsessive about it and what others think about theirs or they just ignore that it is part of life.  However, as we adults know, it is more important in adolescence than when children are younger.  This is especially true when it comes to oral hygiene.

Is your teen struggling with caring for their oral health?  If so, you no doubt want to find ways to encourage healthier habits.  Below are just a few ways you can do this.

Purchase Products Marketed Towards Teens: It may seem silly, much like products that are oddly marketed towards men or women when the products are clearly unisex, but the truth is that teens are highly susceptible to marketing.  They may cost a little more than the exact same product in less flashy packaging, but it is worth it if it helps them care more.

Set Alarms: Most teens live and die by their technology, so use it to your advantage.  To remind your teen to brush and floss, set an alarm for each morning and each evening.  If your teen struggles with brushing for the right length of time, look into a tooth brushing app.  While these are usually designed for younger kids, there are some fun ones that use music on the device that your teen will like.

Make it Easy: If your teen hates brushing, try an electric toothbrush.  Can’t stand flossing?  Purchase pre-threaded flossers.  The easier it is, the more likely it is that your teen will do it.  Even an electric toothpaste pump can help.

If you are living in Santa Cara or in Palmdale and your kid needs braces treatment, kindly visit our website.

Smoking’s Impact on Your Oral and Overall Health

When we think about smoking-related diseases, we think about things involving the lungs.  Lung cancer, emphysema, chronic bronchitis—all of these are diseases we know smoking can cause.  But what we don’t really talk about is that smoking can impact all parts of our body, including our teeth and gums.  If you smoke, even just socially, it is important to know the impact this habit can have on your health.

Worldwide, smoking is a leading cause of death because it contributes to the development of so many diseases.  Oral cancer is one disease that is overwhelmingly linked to smoking; 8 out of every 10 patients with oral cancer are smokers.  Periodontal disease is also closely linked to smoking.  With this disease, bacteria invades compromised gum tissue, weakening it.  This can cause other health issues in the body as well as the loss of teeth.  If it reaches the underlying bone structure, it can also make it impossible to receive dental implants.

Smoking also interferes with the immune system in general.  This means that you are more likely to get sick, and when you do, be sicker for longer. Smoking can also interact with certain medications, making them weaker, further complicating matters.

If you are a smoker, the best thing you can do for your health is work on quitting.  Also, be sure to work with your dentist to monitor your oral health and ensure that your habit has not destroyed your oral health yet.  It is important to take as good of care of your teeth and body in general as you can.  For help with orthodontic treatment in Valencia, visit our website.

How to Maintain the Health of Your Teeth

Your teeth are critical to your overall appearance, and as such, are also critical to your confidence.  Bright, straight teeth are something everyone wants to look good and feel good.  While most of us brush and floss twice a day, there are some other things we can do to make sure our teeth are attractive and healthy for years to come.

Use Mouthwash 

Do you skip this step of your daily oral hygiene routine?  Well, it is time to put a stop to that.  Mouthwash is a great way to kill germs and bacteria in the mouth.  These germs and bacteria can cause cavities and gum disease, which can cause you to lose your teeth.  Getting rid of them both protects your teeth and helps to keep your breath smelling fresh.

Check Your Teeth 

Every day, give your teeth a visual inspection, and also just think about how they are feeling.  Is there anything different?  It doesn’t even need to be pain; just a change.  If you notice anything, notify your dentist or orthodontists.

Clean Your Tongue

Bacteria thrives on the surface of your tongue, and this can cause bad breath as well as contribute to other oral health problems.  If you do not want to use a tongue scraper, just brush your tongue when you brush your teeth.  This small action will make a big difference.

Looking for an orthodontist in Agoura Hills or Valencia?  Then turn to us.  Call or visit our website to learn more.