The teenage years bring plenty of changes, from new routines and growing independence to changing social habits. Oral health is another area where teenagers start taking more responsibility for their own wellbeing.
While it can be tempting for teens to rush through brushing or forget about flossing, establishing good oral hygiene habits now can help support healthy teeth and gums as they get older.
For families in Alexandra Hills and surrounding suburbs, here are some simple oral hygiene tips to help teenagers look after their smiles every day.
Brush twice a day
One of the most important oral hygiene habits for teenagers is brushing their teeth twice a day, in the morning and before bed.
Teenagers should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brushing should be gentle and thorough, making sure to clean the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of the teeth, as well as along the gumline.
It is also important not to brush too aggressively, as excessive pressure can irritate the gums.
For teenagers who use an electric toothbrush, the same principle applies. Allow the toothbrush to do the work rather than applying too much pressure.
Queensland Health recommends brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. After brushing, teens should spit out the toothpaste rather than rinsing with water, as rinsing can remove some of the fluoride left on the teeth.
Don’t forget to clean between the teeth
Brushing alone does not clean every surface of the teeth. Food particles and plaque can build up in the spaces between teeth, which is why cleaning between the teeth is an important part of a teenager’s oral hygiene routine.
Dental floss can be used once a day to clean between the teeth. Some teenagers may find floss difficult to use, particularly if they have braces or other dental appliances. In these situations, there may be alternative interdental cleaning options that are more suitable.
If your teenager is unsure about which method to use, their dentist can provide guidance based on their individual needs.
Be mindful of sugary drinks
Soft drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks, cordials and other sugary beverages can be a regular part of teenage life, particularly around school, sport and social activities.
However, frequently consuming drinks containing added sugar can increase the risk of tooth decay. Some drinks can also be acidic, which may contribute to enamel erosion.
Water is a simple choice for staying hydrated throughout the day. Queensland Health recommends tap water as the drink of choice and advises limiting drinks containing added sugars.
Parents and teenagers do not necessarily need to eliminate every treat. Instead, encouraging water as the everyday drink and limiting frequent exposure to sugary drinks can help support better oral health.
Choose snacks carefully
Teenagers can have busy schedules, which can mean eating on the go or reaching for convenient snacks between meals.
Frequent snacking on foods high in sugar can increase the amount of time teeth are exposed to sugars. Where possible, encourage balanced meals and snacks and avoid constantly grazing on sweet or processed foods throughout the day.
For families, having simple options available at home can make healthy choices easier. Fresh foods and dairy-based snacks can be useful additions to a balanced diet.
Look after your teeth during sport
Sport is an important part of many teenagers’ lives, but activities involving contact or a risk of impact can also result in injuries to the teeth and mouth.
A mouthguard can help reduce the risk of dental injuries during certain sports. Queensland Health notes that custom-made mouthguards provided by a dental practitioner offer a more accurate fit than over-the-counter options.
If your teenager regularly participates in contact or high-impact sport, speak with their dentist about whether a mouthguard is appropriate for their activities.
Take extra care with braces and dental appliances
Teenagers undergoing orthodontic treatment may need to spend extra time cleaning around brackets, wires and other appliances.
Food and plaque can become trapped around these areas, making thorough brushing and cleaning between the teeth particularly important.
Your dentist or orthodontic provider can show your teenager the most appropriate way to clean around their particular appliance. Establishing a consistent routine can make it easier to keep up with oral hygiene throughout treatment.
Replace your toothbrush regularly
A toothbrush does not last forever. Over time, the bristles can become worn and less effective at cleaning the teeth.
Queensland Health recommends replacing a toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every three months, or sooner if the bristles become worn.
It can be helpful for parents to include toothbrush replacement as part of a regular routine, such as at the beginning of each school term.
Don’t wait until something hurts
Teenagers may not always mention changes in their teeth or gums, particularly if they are not causing discomfort.
However, regular dental appointments allow their oral health to be checked and provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns or changes in their routine.
Dental visits can also be a useful time for teenagers to learn how to care for their teeth independently as they become more responsible for their own health.
The Dental Project provides family-focused dental care from its Wellington Point practice and welcomes patients from Alexandra Hills and surrounding areas.
Helping your teenager build healthy habits
Good oral hygiene does not need to be complicated. For most teenagers, the foundations are simple:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between the teeth once a day.
- Choose water regularly throughout the day.
- Limit frequent sugary drinks and snacks.
- Wear an appropriate mouthguard for relevant sports.
- Replace toothbrushes or electric toothbrush heads regularly.
- Attend regular dental appointments.
The teenage years are a good opportunity to help young people take ownership of their oral health. Small habits practised consistently can become part of their everyday routine well into adulthood.
If you are looking for a dentist near Alexandra Hills, The Dental Project is located in nearby Wellington Point and provides dental care for families across the local area.
