When puberty hits a child, their body goes through multiple changes. An area that experiences changes and usually gets ignored is the mouth. By transitioning to a certain age, teenagers should be conscious of their dental health. This blog discusses the impact of puberty on teens’ oral health and how it can be protected.

One of the most significant changes one can notice in teenagers is the rise of hormones for both males and females. This also increases the blood flow in the body, bringing extra blood into the gums. This can cause bleeding or swollen gums. If it happens excessively, it could lead to puberty gingivitis. If left untreated, this could worsen into periodontitis. Hence, teenagers should regularly brush or floss their teeth and visit their dentist for a routine dental checkup. 

Another of these changes is the transformation of the jaw. This change results in severe changes in the mouth. It also causes microbial growth that can lead to more bacteria in the mouth, thereby leading to cavities. 

If your child has just grown into a teenager, watch for changes in their mouth. If these changes occur, visit a dentist for a checkup to determine that it does not lead your child to unexpected dental issues.

After becoming a teenager, the dental routine also changes. One of the biggest changes they experience is their sleeping habits. This change can dramatically impact oral health because teenagers skip morning brushes and sometimes crave late-night snacks. Snack consumption and irresponsible brushing could lead to oral problems. For instance, increased consumption of coffee, tea, or soda can stain their teeth. The acids in these drinks can also erode enamel and cause cavities.

 

You need to encourage your adolescent towards proper dental health regardless of how much life has changed. Ask them to make it a habit to carry a dental case containing a toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss picks, and mouthwash while traveling. You can also keep dental products in their car so that they can keep their mouth healthy wherever they are.