By Dr. Richa Bhatnagar, Jacksonport Dental Clinic
Teenagers go through a lot—new schools, changing friendships, hormones, and yes, even dental challenges. At Jacksonport Dental Clinic, we understand how important it is to guide your teen’s dental health during these crucial years. As a parent, you might wonder: “Are braces really necessary?”, “Is that piercing hurting their teeth?”, or even, “Why are they always skipping brushing?” Don’t worry—you’re not alone.
Let’s walk through the key dental concerns that affect teens and how we help address them at our clinic in NE Calgary.
1. Braces & Orthodontic Needs
Many teens need braces—not just for aesthetics, but for long-term dental function.
Why might your teen need braces?
- Crowded teeth: This can make it harder to brush and floss.
- Overbite or underbite: May cause jaw discomfort or uneven wear.
- Spacing issues or gaps: These can affect how teeth come together.
At Jacksonport Dental Clinic, we offer consultations to evaluate your teen’s bite and recommend treatment like traditional braces or Invisalign (yes, teens love Invisalign—it’s discreet and effective!).
Dr. Richa’s Tip: “I always tell my young patients, braces aren’t just about a pretty smile—they’re about setting your mouth up for a lifetime of health.”
2. Oral Hygiene Habits – The Real Struggle
Teenagers often skip brushing or flossing. Whether it’s due to busier schedules or just forgetfulness, poor oral hygiene can quickly lead to:
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- Cavities
- Gum inflammation (gingivitis)
- Bad breath (halitosis)
How can parents help?
- Encourage a daily routine of brushing twice and flossing once.
- Use reminders or dental apps for fun tracking.
- Invest in electric toothbrushes—they make brushing more effective and fun.
Dr. Richa’s Tip: “Teens respond better when they feel responsible for their health. A short, honest talk with your child about consequences (like cavities or yellow teeth) goes a long way.”
3. Diet & Snacking Habits
Teens love sodas, chips, energy drinks, and sugary snacks. Unfortunately, these are a recipe for tooth decay.
What to watch for:
- High sugar content in energy drinks
- Sticky snacks like gummies that stay on teeth
- Frequent snacking, which gives plaque more fuel
Healthier choices: Water, fruits, cheese, and nuts
Dr. Richa’s Tip: “I encourage parents to keep dental-friendly snacks at home. Teens eat what’s easy to grab.”
4. Sports, Safety & Mouthguards
Is your teen into hockey, basketball, football, or martial arts? Then a custom mouthguard is non-negotiable. Why? Because dental trauma from sports is one of the most common reasons teens need emergency dental care.
At our clinic, we provide custom-fit sports mouthguards that protect your teen’s teeth, jaw, and even reduce the risk of concussion.
5. Teeth Whitening – Is It Safe for Teens?
Many teens become self-conscious about their smile during adolescence. While teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic request, it’s important to approach it carefully.
Not all whitening products are safe for teens. We only recommend professional whitening if:
- The teen has all adult teeth
- There are no untreated cavities or sensitivity issues
Dr. Richa’s Tip: “I always assess each case personally before recommending whitening. A safe, professional approach is key—no TikTok hacks, please!”
6. Oral Piercings & Trends
Lip and tongue piercings may look cool to teens, but they come with dental risks:
- Chipped teeth
- Gum recession
- Infections
Dr. Richa’s Advice to Teens: “If you’re thinking about getting a piercing, let’s have a chat first. I’ll share what to expect and how to care for it safely.”
Final Word from Dr. Richa
Teen years are an exciting time—but also full of changes. At Jacksonport Dental Clinic, we love working with families and guiding teenagers through a healthy dental journey that will last a lifetime.
Whether your child needs braces, a hygiene check-up, a mouthguard, or just a friendly face to talk about their smile—we’re here 7 days a week.
📍Visit us at 124-3730 104 Ave NE Calgary AB T3N 0T1
📞 Call us: +1 403-815-3040
🌐 www.jacksonportdental.ca
