Teens

Developmental

With their final molars arriving—and potentially navigating braces or wisdom teeth—teens must take full ownership of their oral hygiene. Consistent brushing, daily flossing, and limiting acidic or sugary energy drinks are essential to protecting their adult smile for life.

By age 12, most teens have lost their last baby molars. The final "12-year molars" arrive, and eventually, between ages 16–18, we will evaluate the "third molars" (wisdom teeth). Teens are also often undergoing orthodontic treatment (braces), which requires extra attention to hygiene.

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Habits and Diet

Habits

Teens face busy schedules, which can lead to rushing through oral hygiene. Emphasizing the cosmetic and social benefits of good breath and clean teeth can be highly motivating. It's also important to have honest conversations about the severe oral health risks associated with vaping, tobacco use, and oral piercings, which can lead to gum recession and chipped teeth.

Diet

Teens often reach for convenient but harmful energy sources. Frequent snacking and sipping on acidic or sugary drinks can create an "acid bath" for their teeth. Encourage nutrient-dense foods that naturally scrub teeth, and make water the beverage of choice.

Bad

They deliver a double threat of high sugar and severe acidity, creating an "acid bath" that rapidly breaks down and weakens adult tooth enamel.

Try instead

Good

They provide necessary hydration for sports and busy schedules without introducing destructive sugars and acids to the mouth.

Bad

The starch heavily sticks to the teeth while the intensely spicy, acidic coating irritates the gum tissue and actively weakens the enamel.

Try instead

Good

These provide a highly satisfying, savory crunch that doesn't stick to teeth or create a harmful acidic environment in the mouth.

Trauma