For teens 12-18 years old, dental visits to their Newmarket dentist include most elements of an adult visit—with a gentle approach that keeps the needs of slightly younger patients in mind. We will take X-rays to help monitor development, clean and examine teeth, and observe how at-home brushing and flossing are going.

Our team will answer any questions, discuss age-appropriate treatment (such as sealants or fluoride to prevent cavities or orthodontic care), and recommend any foods, products, etc., that pertain to their needs. Some common concerns for adolescent teeth include irregular teeth growth, cavities, orthodontics, and wisdom teeth extraction. 

Education

Your teen’s teeth

Permanent teeth begin appearing around age 6, starting with the first molars and lower central incisors, and continues until approximately age 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth or up to 32 teeth, including the third molars (i.e. wisdom teeth).

• Second molars: Ages of 12-14

Maintain six-month checkups and good home dental care.

• Wisdom teeth: Ages 17-21 

May cause jaw discomfort and crowding; panoramic X-rays can aid in their removal.

• Swollen gums: Early signs of gingivitis include gums that bleed when brushed or flossed, or bright red and swollen gums. 

Learn more about dental concerns for your teens 12-18 years old in Newmarket by contacting Oasispark Dental. Schedule their next visit today!

Oral hygiene for teens

Over 80% of teenagers have cavities by age 17, and many teens drink and eat excessive amounts of sweets, which can lead to tooth decay. Help your teens develop great hygiene habits with the following tips:

• Brush at least twice a day
• Floss daily
• Choose healthy drinks 
• Rinse mouth with water after eating
• Do not consume sweet drinks or foods at night after brushing
• Avoid sweet, sticky snacks
• Maintain regular six-month dental and hygiene visits
• Promote oral health 

Book a visit for your teens 12-18 years old to our Newmarket dental oasis at your earliest convenience. Call or email our office and meet with our friendly team.

Tongue piercings 

There are many risks involved with oral piercings, including chipped or cracked teeth, blood clots, blood poisoning, heart infections, brain abscess, nerve disorders, receding gums or scar tissue. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, infection, increased saliva flow, and injuries to the gum tissue. 

Tobacco 

Tobacco, in any form, can jeopardize health and cause incurable damage. Teach your teen about the dangers of smoking. Watch out for the following signs that could be early indicators of oral cancer:

• A sore that will not heal
• Pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth or lips
• White or red leathery patches on the lips, and on or under the tongue
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue; or a change in the way the teeth fit together

Since early signs of oral cancer are not usually painful, they are often ignored. If not caught in the early stages, oral cancer can require extensive, sometimes disfiguring, surgery. If you suspect any signs, we will perform an oral cancer screening.

Periodontal and gum disease 

There are three primary forms of periodontal and gum diseases that can affect teens.

• Gingivitis: The mildest form of gum disease, where gums become swollen, red and tender, resulting in bleeding during daily brushing and flossing. Continuous care can easily solve the problem.
• Periodontitis: The deterioration of the bone around the tooth becomes evident. Common symptoms include bleeding red gums, bad tastes, loose teeth and tooth loss. Treatment usually involves plaque removal, medication, or possibly surgery.
• Periodontal disease: The bones surrounding the tooth, gums and coverings of teeth root and tooth membrane are affected. If left untreated, it can spread and affect the bones under the teeth, eventually dissolving and no longer supporting teeth in place. 

Eating disorders

Bulimia and anorexia are severe disorders that affect the appearance of teeth by eroding tooth enamel. While our dentists can correct tooth enamel, we cannot treat an actual eating disorder—a potential life-threatening psychological condition.

Help your teen maintain or improve their oral hygiene. Schedule a dental checkup for them soon with our dedicated team!

Teens 12-18 years old in Newmarket Dental Services: