Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you did something foolish simply to appease your peers and impress your friends? For most of us, this may be true, but there are consequences. In the world of oral health, peer pressure from your teenage friends can put your smile at risk. Even if you have no intention of giving into peer pressure, the daily life of a standard teenager can put your smile at risk.
Contact sports and high adrenaline activities are extremely popular among teens. Although these activities can be rewarding and teach many life lessons, it is important to always ensure proper safety gear is worn to protect your teeth. This can include mouth guards, helmets, and facemasks.
Teenagers are most at risk for issues with their wisdom teeth because the teenage years are typically the years when they grow in. If they do not fully grow in properly or if they place additional pressure on surrounding teeth, they may need to be removed.
Although mouth jewelry may be worn by teenagers to be more acceptable and cool to their friends, metal jewelry in the mouth is often a recipe for disaster. These objects can cut gums or chip and crack teeth. Additional risks include infectious diseases such as hepatitis or endocarditis, or in some cases, the jewelry may be a choking hazard.
Some additional risks for tooth decay and gum disease includes: sugary drinks and foods, smoking or chewing tobacco, and recreational drugs. If you would like additional information on how to protect the teeth and gums of a teen, or to schedule an appointment with Drs. Reilender and Norden, call us at 316-788-4000 to schedule a visit to our office in Derby, Kansas. The smile of your dreams is only a visit away!