Periodontal disease is not limited to older people. A person can be quite young when he starts showing signs of gum disease. You can stress the importance of oral care and oral health to your teenager.

Periodontal Disease Prevention Tips. You may need to occasionally remind your teen about oral health habits. Even though he has passed the childhood stage, make sure he has the correct dental care supplies, and check to see he is using them regularly.

Have plenty of healthy foods and beverages in your home. One way to encourage him to make healthy choices is by setting a good example.

Your teen needs regular dental visits for examinations and professional cleanings. Set appointments for him that do not conflict with his busy schedule. He may not object to taking time off from school to visit the dentist.
Teens And Oral Health Issues. There are some oral health issues you may not have encountered when your teen was younger. One example is participating in sports. If he sustains an injury to his face or mouth while playing sports, a visit to the dentist for immediate treatment is necessary. It can prevent further problems, including pain that can interfere with his home oral care.

Teens who play sports should wear mouthguards. This is a topic to discuss with your dentist. A mouthguard can protect your teen’s teeth and gums when he participates in the activity.

Second, advice from the dentist is important if your teen wears braces. While oral care with braces can be more complicated, he cannot afford to neglect his dental care routines. He can be instructed on how to properly brush and floss while he is wearing braces.

Third, hormonal changes during the teenage years can present special oral health problems for girls. Even if your daughter is experiencing gum sensitivity, she can be encouraged to practice good oral hygiene.
As a parent, you may feel you have less influence over your child’s oral care habits when he becomes a teenager. Even when he spends much of his day away from home, he can maintain his oral health. He will be less likely to develop periodontal disease.