Adolescent oral health is becoming more of a concern every day. Teenagers are high risk for decay (cavities), gingivitis and early periodontal (gum) disease. Risk level depends on diet, occlusal considerations, the presence of wisdom teeth and tobacco usage.
The most common site of decay (dental caries) is in the grooves of the molar teeth. The first sign of gum irritation is gingivitis; evidence that the gums are irritated most likely due to an imbalance in the oral flora of the mouth. When this happens plaque/ tartar levels are too high and the risk for caries and/or periodontal disease is increased.
The key to preventing caries and periodontal disease is to have regular check-ups and cleanings with your Dentist and Dental Hygienist. The dentist is able to protect the teeth before a cavity is diagnosed by the professional application of sealants. Sealants are a clear coating that when placed on fissures of the molars help protect them from caries. A wide variety of topical fluoride products such as gels, and rinses can also reduce the risk of dental caries, particularly on the smooth surfaces of the teeth. The dental hygienist is able to remove tartar build-up that cannot be removed by brushing your teeth and flossing alone. Professional teeth cleaning leaves gums and teeth in a healthier state and gives the mouth a chance to heal and recover reducing the chance for caries and early periodontitis.
Processed sugars such as sugary beverages and sticky, starchy carbohydrates, when mixed with the amylase in our saliva produces acid. The acid the environment in the mouth the higher risk for caries and plaque/ tartar build-up.
Sometimes occlusal variations play a role in the level of oral health care. This can be corrected with orthodontics or alternatively known as braces. Braces can correct the bite, rotations in teeth, placement and spacing of teeth. This is not only for esthetic reasons where you can have straight teeth but also to be able to access and reach all surfaces of each tooth to keep them as clean as possible.
Wisdom teeth can become a problem in adolescents where headaches, clenching/ grinding of the teeth, and pain in the jaw can become a problem. Wisdom teeth need to be assessed by a dentist to see when and at what age they can be safely removed.
Lastly, tobacco usage amongst adolescents has become more prevalent over the years. Whether it be smoking or chewing of tobacco, there is a strong correlation between gum disease and caries incidence. Tobacco cessation is something that can be discussed with your dental health provider.
Satwant Kaur Sidhu, RDH, Lifepath Wellness Centre
Dental Hygiene, Durham College/UOIT
BSc. Biochemistry, Carleton University
