Teenagers

As children enter their teenage years and become more independent in the decisions they make, positive dental health including brushing and flossing needs to be encouraged. Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry is likely to become more of a consideration for teens, including teeth whitening, restorations and orthodontic treatment. The table below outlines some of the restorative choices that may be considered:

Treatment	Goals	Pros & Cons
Preventive resins (Fissue sealants)	Tiny cavities	Look natural, great preventive measure, smaller investment
Tooth-coloured fillings	Cavities in front and back teeth, cavities in front teeth	Look natural, work best in low-stress areas
Tooth-coloured crowns	Severe decay, tooth with fracture, developmental defect or root canal treatment	Look natural, performance may be less durable more costly than stainless steel crowns
CEREC	Replicate existing tooth look and feel	A very close match to an original tooth. Less expensive than crowns.

Below is a useful guide which outlines some of the cosmetic choices that may be considered and their effects:

Treatment	Goals	Pros & Cons
Whitening toothpastes	Brighten teeth	Remove surface stains but does not lighten the colour of the teeth
Over-the-counter whitening kits (strips, gels in preformed trays)	Lighten teeth	Patient convenience, low cost; limited control (not for single tooth) and efficiency, tissue irritation from poorly-fitting tray. Limited whitening from this method
Custom-made bleaching trays	Lighten teeth	Greater efficiency than over-the-counter kits, intimate fit; requires multiple applications
In-office bleaching	Whitens discoloured teeth	Lightens and brightens the colour of a tooth or teeth, very comfortable, professional control with protection of the gums during treatment, more stable results; relatively more costly than at-home methods.
Microabrasion	Brighten discoloured areas on individual teeth	Improves spots and stains on teeth, very comfortable; less predictable results
Bonding and veneers	Restore discoloured teeth Restore a tooth that is chipped or broken Mask developmental defects such as pitted or small teeth	Greatly improves the look of the teeth, last for several years, comfortable
Porcelain Crowns	Restore discoloured teeth Restore a tooth that is chipped or broken Restore a tooth with extensive decay Mask developmental defects such as pitted or small teeth	Greatly improves the look of the teeth, very durable, treatment more extensive
Orthodontic Treatment	Correct crooked or crowded teeth	Benefits go far beyond cosmetics to correct bite problems and prevent future dental problems, most extensive investment of time and finances

General Dental Tips for Teens

By the end of the teen years, teens probably will get the last of their permanent teeth, called wisdom teeth or third molars. Although some wisdom teeth come into the mouth normally, others need to be removed because of their position or lack of space. A dentist will make sure any treatment needed for a teen’s wisdom teeth takes place at the right time.

Brush twice a day – after breakfast and before bed – with fluoride toothpaste. Floss once a day to prevent gum disease and tooth decay on the sides of the teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach.

Wear a mouthguard during any sport or activity with a risk of falls, collisions or contact with hard surfaces or equipment. This includes sports such as AFL football, baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, wrestling and gymnastics, as well as leisure activities such as skateboarding, skating and cycling.

Visit your dentist twice a year. Teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments and sealants are still important for you to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath and to maintain a healthy, visually appealing smile.