Understanding 5 Common Dental Issues in Teenagers

Throughout the different stages of life, everyone may be worried about different oral health issues. Adults may be focused on preventing gum disease, while parents may be doing their best to prevent their children from getting cavities. However, teens often face a unique set of dental challenges. To help your loved one have a strong smile, here’s a bit more about common concerns they may be dealing with and ways to protect their grin.

1.)  Problems with Their Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth often start to erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. These third molars may come in without a hitch, but for others, they may cause a myriad of problems. They might be at an angle, which can be painful. Not only that, but your teen may also be at a higher risk of dental problems, so you should talk to their pediatric dentist to see if having them removed will be best down the line.

2.)  Orthodontic Issues

Misalignment and crookedness might also be present in your loved one’s smile, but this can lead to jaw pain and trouble eating or speaking, depending on the severity. Thankfully, there are many options to correct their malocclusion with orthodontics. Whether it’s with braces or clear aligners, these can help them get the straighter smile they’ll feel more comfortable in.

3.)  Dental Injuries from Sports

If your teen plays sports or is at risk of a facial blow during an activity, they should wear a mouthguard. This is an oral appliance that’s customized to fit over their grin and absorb impact. Simply having them in can avoid damaged teeth and keep them intact.

4.)  Vaping and E-Cigarette Usage

Many people use their teenage years to experiment with things, one of which may be smoking. Whether it’s vaping, e-cigarettes, or tobacco, engaging in these harmful habits can leave an impact on their smile. They may be increasing their risk of gum disease, stains, or even oral cancer.  

One way you can help them avoid this is by talking with them. Let them know the impact and have a serious discussion about them; that way, they can make better choices later on.

5.)  External Pressures and Factors

There are plenty of other things that can affect your loved one’s oral health. Their stress level, because of school for one, can make them grind or clench their teeth, leading to jaw pain. If they need energy drinks to get them through the day, then they may be at a higher risk of enamel erosion and cavities. Social media can also come into play! Seeing perfect grins online can make them self-conscious and try out harmful DIY hacks.

In the end, your teen may be facing a multitude of dental challenges. Some may creep up more than others, but you should do your part in instilling healthy habits. That way, they can show off a problem-free smile.

About the Practice

At New England Kids Pediatric Dentistry, General Dentistry and Orthodontics, children and teens alike in the Auburn community benefit from a team of skilled dentists. We are happy to help your loved one develop a good relationship with their grin, encouraging them to keep it in great shape well into their adulthood. If you want to protect your teen’s teeth, schedule an appointment for them or call our office at (508) 832-6278.