Dental Health: A Guide for Teens

Dental Health:

A Guide for Teens

Dental Health

Keeping Your Teeth Clean

Cavities

Wisdom Teeth

Braces

Brushing your teeth twice a day is important to keep your teeth clean, but did you know that eating nutritious foods and not smoking can also keep you mouth and gums healthy? Read on to learn more about factors that contribute to gum and oral health problems and what you can do to keep your mouth healthy.

What is oral health?

Oral health (also known as dental health) is caring for your mouth which includes your teeth, gums, and tongue.

What can I do to keep my mouth healthy?

Gently brush the inside and outside surfaces of your teeth at least twice a day but it’s best to brush after every meal and before you go to sleep. If it isn’t convenient to brush your teeth after every meal, try chewing sugar-free gum to help keep your teeth clean.
Eat healthy foods from all the different food groups—Be sure to eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Poor nutrition can cause puffy or inflamed gums.
Avoid piercing areas of your mouth (tongue, lips, etc.). Oral piercings of the tongue, lip, etc. can cause; infections, bleeding, and nerve damage in the mouth. They can also damage tooth enamel or break teeth.
Don’t smoke or use chewing tobacco. Smoking and chewing tobacco can stain your teeth and gums and add to the tarter build-up on your teeth. Chewing tobacco can get stuck in between your teeth and can cause swelling of the gums, irritation, and bad breath. Anyone who smokes or chews tobacco is at risk for getting oral cancer.
Limit sugary and sticky food such as Fruit Snacks®, raisins, lollipops, and other candy. Sugary and sticky foods can get stuck in between your teeth, which can lead to cavities.

How often do I need to change my toothbrush?

Toothbrushes are effective in removing plaque from your teeth and gums. You should change your tooth brush about every three months or sooner if you are sick with the flu, cold, or mouth infection.

Next: Keeping Your Teeth Clean

Written by the Center for Young Women's Health Staff

Updated: 5/26/2009

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