Caring for an Elderly Parent With Special Dental Needs

Did Your Teen's Last Dental Exam Reveal Too Many Cavities? 3 Strategies To Prevent Further Tooth Decay

23 January 2018

Joe Lawrence

When it comes to your child's mouth, even one cavity is more than you want to hear about. Unfortunately, the teen years are a time when many kids develop cavities since they are expected to take on more responsibility for their oral hygiene. While you can't be expected to brush your child's teeth for them, you can help them get a handle on tooth decay by using these strategies to stop cavities before they start.

Teach Proper Tooth Brushing Techniques

Preventative dentistry often begins at home since brushing and flossing go a long way toward removing the bacteria that contributes to decay. However, teenagers may be tempted to rush through the brushing process, or they may be unsure of how to floss correctly. Ask your teen's dentist to assess their current techniques and provide tips to make sure they do it the right way. For example, your teen may need help knowing how to hold the brush to reach the back teeth. Then, encourage them to brush to their favorite song or set a timer to make sure that they spend a full two minutes twice a day caring for their teeth.

Swap Out Sugary Drinks for Water

Whether your teen loves a soda during a movie or prefers an energy drink before they work out, these beverages are usually filled with sugar. Unfortunately, the acids generated by sugary beverages can weaken enamel and make it easier for decay to set in. Encourage your teen to drink water in place of sugar-filled drinks. If they do indulge in their favorite beverage, then ask them to rinse their mouth with water afterward to help rinse the acids from their mouth.

Keep Up With Professional Cleanings

A teenager's schedule may include school, work and extracurricular activities. While all of these things help them grow into a well-rounded individual, too many activities may make it easy to forget critical dental care. Help your teen set up appointments for preventative dentistry in your area before they sign up for classes or sports activities. This way, they learn that their oral health is a priority, and their scheduled dates will serve as a reminder when it is time for a checkup.

Although it is easy to get upset when your teen has cavities, you can turn this into a learning opportunity for your child. By helping your teen understand how lifestyle factors influence their oral health, you can get them back on track with maintaining a healthy smile. For more tips, go to sites that have more information on preventative dentistry.

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