Growing up means more than just learning to drive, or taking a job to pay for expenses. The skills we have learned throughout our childhood, now become our responsibility to fine-tune, hone, and enhance, for optimum results. Skills like oral hygiene now take on new dynamics beyond brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Many environmental and social factors now also come into play, including:
Mouth jewelry
Mouth jewelry can be considered stylish and popular for many reasons, yet they can also wreak havoc on your oral health. Even tongue rings can have dangerous consequences, such as oral inflammation, cracked teeth, choking, and they can even lead to infectious diseases, such as hepatitis or endocarditis.
Sports
Many teenagers are actively involved in sports, which is a leading cause of oral injury to teens. Despite its awkward appearance, it’s always a good idea to wear a mouth guard and facemasks (when applicable). Take pride in your smile and wear safety equipment.
Smoking
Smoking has devastating effects on a teenager’s oral health. Smoking can have immediate negative effects beyond increased risk of many cancers; such as bad breath, stained teeth, and gums, as well as the lingering smell on clothing, furniture, and even nearby friends.
There is never a wrong time to enhance your oral health, and if you would like to discuss more in detail, please call Melissa Maus & Associates at 415-781-0819 to talk to a member of our team.