Teen Teeth: Braces, Sports Drinks, Wisdom Teeth and Piercings

"I don't know if he's brushing at all anymore." Many parents of teenagers tell me something like this. The teenage years bring independence, busy schedules, late nights and new habits, and teeth often slip down the priority list. You can no longer brush for them, but you can still guide them. Here are the topics that matter most at this age.

Independence, and slipping habits

Teens are usually old enough to look after their teeth well, but they don't always choose to. Late-night studying, gaming and snacking can push bedtime brushing aside. What tends to work better than reminders every evening:

• Explain the "why" once, calmly, then step back. Fresh breath and a nice smile often motivate teens more than talk about cavities.
• Make it easy: a good electric or manual toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and floss or floss picks they actually like.
• Let them take the lead at the dentist. Encourage your teen to book their own appointments, answer questions themselves and ask the dentist directly. Many teens are more open when they are treated as the patient, not the child.

Energy drinks, sports drinks and fizzy drinks

These are among the biggest threats to teen teeth. Many are both sugary and acidic, and acid can gradually wear away enamel, a process called erosion. "Sugar-free" versions are often still acidic.

• Water is the best drink for sport for most teens. Sports drinks are usually only needed for long, intense exercise, and even then ask your doctor or coach.
• Energy drinks are not recommended for children and teens. Besides the teeth, they contain high levels of caffeine.
• If they do drink something fizzy, drink it with a meal, use a straw, and finish it rather than sipping for hours. Then rinse with water.
• Wait about 30 to 60 minutes before brushing after an acidic drink, as softened enamel can be worn away by brushing straight after.

Brushing with braces

Braces trap food and plaque, and white marks or cavities around the brackets are a common problem if cleaning slips.

• Brush carefully around every bracket, above and below the wire, especially after meals.
• Use interdental brushes, floss threaders or orthodontic floss, or a water flosser, to clean under the wire.
• Avoid hard and sticky foods that can break brackets.
• Keep up regular check-ups with the dentist as well as the orthodontist.

Mouthguards

Teens playing football, basketball, rugby, martial arts or other contact sports should wear a mouthguard. A custom-made guard usually fits and protects best, and there are designs suitable for teens with braces.

Wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth are usually monitored with X-rays from the mid to late teens. Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. Some come through normally, and some stay buried without causing problems. Your dentist will look at their position, the space available and any symptoms such as pain, swelling or repeated gum infections before recommending anything.

Mouth piercings

Tongue and lip piercings are popular, but I generally advise against them. They can:

• Chip or crack teeth when the jewellery knocks against them
• Cause gum recession, where the gum pulls back from the teeth
• Lead to infection and swelling, and sometimes bleeding or nerve damage

If your teen already has one, ask the dentist to check the teeth and gums around it regularly.

Vaping and smoking

Without lecturing, it is worth teens knowing that smoking and vaping are linked to gum disease, dry mouth, staining and bad breath, and smoking can mask early signs of gum problems. If your teen wants to stop, your family doctor can help.

When teeth tell a different story

Sometimes a dentist notices enamel wear on the inner surfaces of the teeth that can be linked to frequent vomiting or eating difficulties. If this happens, we will raise it gently and privately. If you have any concerns about your teen's eating, speak to your doctor.

Whitening

Many teens want whiter teeth. Ask the dentist first. Whitening products are not suitable for everyone, can cause sensitivity, and some products sold online are not safe. Often a professional clean is all that is needed.