Teen Dental Care

Protecting Healthy Smiles Through Adolescence

 

Your smile is one of the first things people notice—and during your teen years, it’s more important than ever to take great care of it.

 

Dental problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel wear can develop quickly without proper hygiene, especially with the frequent consumption of sugary snacks, soda, juice, or energy drinks.

 

By maintaining good oral habits now, you can set the foundation for a confident, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.

 

Healthy Oral Habits for Teens

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for two full minutes

• Floss once daily to clean between teeth

• Limit sugary and starchy snacks

• Drink water over soda or sports drinks

• Visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups

• Avoid smoking or vaping—they stain teeth, damage gums, and harm your health

• Skip oral piercings, which increase the risk of cracked teeth and serious infection

• Wear a mouthguard during sports or high-impact activities

 

Preventive Treatments for Teen Smiles

• Dental Sealants

  • Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to help prevent cavities. They're especially helpful for teens, whose back teeth are often difficult to clean thoroughly. Sealants are quick, painless, and can last for years with proper care.

• Mouthguards

  • For teens involved in sports, a custom-fitted mouthguard protects against dental injuries such as chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth. Ask your dentist which type of mouthguard is right for you.

• Orthodontics and Braces

  • Many teens benefit from orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth or bite issues. Straightening teeth improves both appearance and function, making brushing and flossing easier and reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Treatment options include:

    • Traditional metal braces

    • Clear or tooth-colored ceramic braces

    • Removable clear aligners

Regular checkups ensure your treatment stays on track.

 

Wisdom Teeth Monitoring

 

Wisdom teeth—the third molars—typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 21. If there isn’t enough room in the mouth, or if they come in at an angle, they can become impacted, causing pain, infection, or damage to other teeth.

Your dentist will monitor the development of your wisdom teeth through regular exams and may recommend removal if necessary.

 

The Impact of Smoking and Vaping

 

Tobacco use—including cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and vaping—is especially harmful to oral health. Risks include:

• Bad breath

• Gum disease and tooth loss

• Delayed healing after dental procedures

• Oral cancer

 

Quitting is the best way to protect your health. Talk to your dentist or physician if you need support with quitting.

 

Oral Piercings and Jewelry

 

Lip, cheek, or tongue piercings may seem trendy, but they can lead to serious complications:

• Cracked or fractured teeth

• Gum recession

• Infection or swelling that may block the airways

• Increased risk of transmitting infections like hepatitis

 

If you’re considering a piercing, speak with your dentist about the risks and safer alternatives.

 

“Meth Mouth” and Substance Use

The use of drugs like methamphetamine can cause catastrophic damage to the mouth. Common symptoms include:

• Rapid, widespread tooth decay

• Crumbling, discoloured teeth

• Severe gum infection and tooth loss

 

Substance use also increases the risk of oral infections and slows healing after procedures. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, please seek help from a medical professional or counsellor

 

Eating Disorders and Oral Health

 

Eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia have serious consequences for oral health. Frequent vomiting exposes teeth to stomach acid, which can:

• Erode enamel

• Cause teeth to become brittle, discoloured, or misshapen

• Increase sensitivity and decay

 

Nutritional deficiencies can also lead to dry mouth, gum bleeding, and salivary gland issues. If you're experiencing disordered eating, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider and your dentist for support and care.

 

Your Future Starts with a Healthy Smile

At Hillcrest Dental Group, we support teens in building strong, confident smiles. Whether you need preventive care, orthodontics, wisdom tooth monitoring, or guidance on oral health habits, we’re here to help.