TEEN DENTAL CARE

Providing teens with the tools to maintain healthy smiles

Let’s face it, teen’s lives are very busy at times. Teenagers may be tempted to skip or slack off on the brushing, flossing, 6-month dental visits and limiting sugary drinks, but stay the course. Teen dental care is necessary for your teenager’s continued development. Now, just as much as before, your child’s teeth need regular attention.

Maintaining good oral hygiene habits of brushing twice a day and flossing regularly will help your teen pass their 6-month checkups with flying colors. However, if there is a problem or issue we can help. Common dental problems affecting teens include:

Decay
Misaligned teeth
Tooth injury
Erupting or impacted wisdom teeth

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MISALIGNED TEETH & ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

In accordance with the American Association of Orthodontists, we recommend that all children visit an orthodontist for an evaluation by the age of 7. Orthodontists have expertise and training in detecting bite alignment problems and the best way to treat them. Occasionally, children may benefit from early interceptive treatment to help make room for permanent teeth. In such cases, it is important to be evaluated by an orthodontist.

If you are in orthodontic treatment or will begin orthodontic treatment soon, it doesn’t mean that you stop visiting your regular dentist. Your teeth still need checkups and cleanings, perhaps even more so during orthodontic treatment. It is also important to up your game when it comes to good oral hygiene habits at home. Ideally, brushing after each meal to remove any food particles that might cling to braces will help reduce the chance of decay. Flossing becomes quite tricky during braces treatment and we suggest using a floss threader or a floss pick to help you clean those hard-to-reach places.

FUN FACT: Dogs have 42 teeth and cats have 30.

YOUR TEEN’S SMILE
IS OUR SPECIALTY

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PREVENT TOOTH DECAY

Cavities are a common problem plaguing children and adults alike. At RVA Pediatric Dentistry, we focus on preventative care to help reduce the risk of decay. Preventative teen dental care includes a healthy diet, brushing and flossing regularly as well as fluoride treatments and dental sealants (if needed) to protect the teeth.

If a tooth has decay and a filling is required, RVA Pediatric Dentistry uses a composite resin filling that is tooth-colored, durable and long-lasting. The material is resistant to fracture and able to withstand the constant stress of chewing. But remember, the best filling is no filling!

SAY YES TO MOUTHGUARDS

We recommend properly-fitted mouthguards for all children participating in recreational sports. Mouthguards should be used for any activity that can result in trauma to the face or mouth. Mouthguards help protect the mouth and cushion any direct force to the teeth and mouth thereby minimizing traumatic injuries to the teeth.

Mouthguards fit over the top teeth and limit the risk of chipped or broken teeth, tooth loss and permanent nerve damage to a tooth or teeth. You should especially wear mouthguards during orthodontic treatment and if you have any fixed bridge work.