Teen Years Tough on Teeth
The preteen and teen years may be some of the toughest
for teeth. Peer pressure, fashion statements and
the need to fit in can impact how teens treat their
teeth. These factors can contribute to a variety of
oral and general health problems including poor nutrition,
cavities and early gum disease.
“Every stage of life brings a new set of oral
health issues, but teenagers face a number of unique
challenges that can bring about a range of oral health
problems,” said Dr. Jed Jacobson, vice president
of Professional Services and dental director at Delta
Dental of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana.
Dr. Jacobson says some of the most common challenges
that can impact a teen’s healthy smile include:
Eating Disorders
Bulimia and anorexia are two of the most destructive
eating disorders impacting teenagers’ oral and
general health. According to the National Eating Disorders
Association, five to 10 million girls and women, and
one million boys and men, are struggling with eating
disorders. Bulimia and anorexia can lead to inflammation
of the gums, erosion of tooth enamel, cavities and can
eventually cause tooth loss. Studies show up to 89 percent
of bulimic patients have signs of tooth erosion, caused
by repeated exposure to stomach acid. Dentists can often
detect symptoms of eating disorders during routine examinations
of the mouth. Customized courses of treatment are often
recommended to mitigate damage to teeth and gums.
Mouth Piercing
Many teens are making a fashion statement with mouth
piercings but they might not be aware of the risks involved.
Jewelry in the lips or tongue can chip teeth, scrape
gums, cause nerve damage, and create other oral health
problems. Teens with oral piercings are also at risk
for serious infections like Ludwig’s angina. According
to the Academy of General Dentistry, Ludwig’s
angina is caused when bacteria enter the bloodstream
through an oral piercing, causing the floor of the mouth
to rapidly swell and potentially blocking the airway.
Because of the risk factors associated with oral piercing,
teenagers should first discuss the practice with a dental
professional.
Teeth Whitening
With the increased popularity of over-the-counter teeth
whitening products, image-conscious teens have been
flocking to stores to do-it-themselves. According to
the Academy of General Dentistry, teeth whitening is
a $600 million industry that is growing 15 to 20 percent
a year, partly fueled by teens. Studies have shown,
however, that an overuse of bleaching products can deteriorate
tooth enamel, increase teeth sensitivity or cause gum
irritation. Teenagers and their parents should consult
a dentist to discuss tooth whitening options.
Decisions made by teens are often intended to boost
self-esteem in the short-term but long-term consequences
may result. Guided by parents and health professionals,
teens can make healthy choices that boost self-esteem
and ensure a lifetime of good oral health.
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