Teen dentistry in Seattle

Regular dental visits are important for dental patients of all ages. From infants and toddlers to teenagers, adults, and seniors. Coming in for a dental visit every six months is the best way to make sure that your teenager’s mouth is in good shape, and free of common oral health issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
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Additionally, teenagers may be at a higher risk of cavities than younger children and adults, in some cases. Seeing a dentist like Dr. Brittany or Dr. Yoni early allows any potential cavities to be identified early, so we can take action and prevent future tooth decay.
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Regular visits also let our dentists assess your teen’s mouth to determine if they need orthodontic treatment. If we notice that their teeth are crooked or that their bite is causing issues like premature tooth wear, we may recommend orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign.

Many people think of cavities as primarily an issue earlier in childhood, but teens can be at a higher risk of developing cavities, too. There are a few reasons that teenagers may have a higher risk of cavities.
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Increased independence can lead to a change in diet, increased snacking, and the consumption of more sugar, including sugary beverages like energy drinks, sports drinks, coffee drinks and fruit smoothies. Teenagers may also begin to neglect their oral health when you’re not supervising their brushing, which can lead to a higher risk of cavities. Oral piercings can also damage tooth enamel and lead to cavities or gum tissue loss.
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Braces can also trap food and lead to a higher risk of cavities if your teen does not brush and floss properly. Smoking tobacco can lead to a higher risk of cavities or pre-dispose teenagers to gum disease and oral cancers. It is not yet known if vaping contributes to tooth decay, but currently-available evidence suggests that it does.

An important way to develop healthy dental habits in teenagers is to see a dentist like Dr. Brittany or Dr. Yoni for dental cleanings and exams every six months. Our Seattle dentists are a voice of authority outside of your immediate family that teenagers are more likely to listen to. If you have had trouble getting your teenager to change their dental habits, it’s a good idea to ask your dentist to discuss their oral health with them. Contact us for an appointment right away.

Invisalign has a number of benefits for teenagers. First, it helps boost their self-esteem by straightening their teeth. Invisalign is also easier to clean, compared to traditional braces. This means that your teen will be able to keep their teeth clean and free of plaque and tartar more easily, avoiding tooth decay and cavities. Because Invisalign is nearly invisible, your child will be able to avoid the social stigma sometimes attached to orthodontic treatment. Another benefit is that Invisalign treatment does not have any food or dietary restrictions and can be removed to play sports or certain musical instruments like woodwinds and brass. With Invisalign, your teen can maintain their current hobbies, active lifestyle, and oral health.