In this companion blog to our guide to dental milestones for babies and children, Aloe Dental Wellness explains what dental milestones you can expect during your child’s teen years.
Dental Milestones For Your Teen
Dental care holds significant importance for teenagers due to several reasons. Firstly, adolescence is a crucial period for dental development, as permanent teeth emerge and any dental issues, such as overcrowding or misalignment, may become evident. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene practices can help identify and address these issues early on, preventing further complications in the future.
Secondly, teenagers often experience changes in their dietary habits, which can increase the risk of dental problems like cavities and gum disease. Educating teenagers about the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, limiting sugary snacks and beverages, and practicing good oral hygiene can help safeguard their dental health.
Furthermore, oral health is closely linked to overall health and well-being. Poor dental hygiene can contribute to various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By emphasizing the connection between dental health and overall health, teenagers can be encouraged to prioritize their oral care and adopt healthy habits.
Lastly, adolescence is a time when self-esteem and social interactions play a significant role. Maintaining a healthy and attractive smile can boost a teenager’s confidence, allowing them to engage more confidently in social activities, relationships, and school environments.
Overall, dental care for teenagers is essential not only for their immediate oral health but also for their long-term well-being, self-esteem, and overall quality of life.
Around Age 12-13: Molar Eruption
By the time your child reaches around 12 or 13 years old, their permanent adult teeth will have fully emerged, including the molars. If there are any dental concerns related to overlapping, overcrowding, or an incorrect bite based on their dental structure, braces can be a suitable solution. Typically, children between the ages of 12 and 13 receive braces, but in some cases, a dentist may recommend an orthodontic consultation as early as seven years old. Considering that teenagers often have unhealthy eating habits, it is crucial for parents to educate them about the vital link between dental health and overall well-being.
Regular Dentist’s Visits Are Important
During the pre-teen and teen years, adolescents begin to embrace their independence and make personal choices, including their dietary preferences and daily routines. While they might opt for soda, snacks, and unhealthy foods, it remains crucial for them to prioritize their dental well-being by adhering to a routine of brushing their teeth twice a day and flossing at least once daily.
Furthermore, it is advisable for these young individuals to undergo orthodontic screenings to detect any potential dental concerns that might require orthodontic treatments like braces or other oral appliances. Regular visits to the dentist, scheduled twice a year, play a pivotal role in maintaining optimal dental health for your child. During these appointments, the dentist can assess the overall condition of your child’s teeth and devise a personalized plan if necessary.
Orthodontic Treatment
If your child is experiencing jaw issues, crooked teeth, or misalignment, braces could potentially be beneficial for them. The good news is that during the adolescent years, orthodontic treatment is most effective. During this stage of development, the jawbone is still growing, making it easier to adjust teeth and address bite problems compared to treating an adult’s teeth. It’s important to consider your child’s age when deciding on braces, as some children may have a slower rate of maturity, including the emergence of their permanent teeth. Most orthodontists recommend that children start orthodontic treatment at least by the age of 7, with the ideal age range typically falling between 11 and 14 years old. Ultimately, the decision regarding orthodontic treatment should be made by a dentist, and Dr. Cadavid is available to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.
Late Teens: Wisdom Teeth
As your child enters their late teens, they should have nearly all of their permanent adult teeth in place. This is also the time when the third molars, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, begin to emerge. To avoid complications such as overcrowding and jaw discomfort, it is typically advised for adolescents to undergo wisdom teeth extraction. We strongly recommend that your teenager undergoes x-rays during their routine biannual dental cleaning appointments. This enables us to closely monitor the development of their wisdom teeth. If any problems arise, such as improper positioning or potential issues, we will suggest the removal of the wisdom teeth.
Choose Aloe Dental Wellness For All Your Dentistry Needs
At Aloe Dental Wellness, you can expect the very best in dental care with Dr. Daniela Cadavid. Before your appointment, you can expect to enjoy soothing music and fresh coffee, tea, and water in our relaxing patient lounge. Our office is a child-friendly, family-oriented environment, and we pride ourselves on the ability to make patients of all ages comfortable.
Dr. Cadavid is glad to offer a brand-new office equipped with the latest technology and services in both English and Spanish to UCSB students and staff, as well as the surrounding communities. Aloe Dental Wellness in Santa Barbara County is proud to provide general, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry services to meet the needs of your entire family as well. For an appointment, call us at 805-454-7727 today.
