Getting into good habits as a young person will help keep your teen’s teeth and gums healthy and decay-free now and in later life.
Encourage your teen to stick to good eating habits, avoiding sugary snacks and drinks in between meals and make sure they have regular dental check-ups as often as your dentist recommends. NHS dental care is free of charge for children under the age of 18, and for those under 19 and in full-time education.
Remind your teen of all the reasons why a healthy smile is important if they are reluctant to follow a good routine.
- For making good first impressions.
- To boost your confidence.
- For clear communication.
- For eating and enjoying food.
- If they don’t look after their teeth and gums, they’ll get bad breath, tooth decay and loss, gum disease and dental erosion as they get older.
Good habits for oral health
- Brush teeth twice a day: last thing at night and at one other time, normally in the morning. Use toothpaste that contains flouride, which helps to strengthen enamel and reduce decay.
- Change your teen’s toothbrush every three months if possible.
- Use toothpaste that contains flouride, which helps to strengthen enamel and reduce decay.
- As well as brushing, you should be using interdental brushes or floss between your teeth at least once a day. This is to make sure you reach places the brush can’t get to.
- Spit, don’t rinse after brushing. This lets the fluoride in the toothpaste stay on your teeth for longer, helping make them stronger.z
- If your teen has a brace, they’ll need to take a bit more time and effort to keep their teeth and braces clean.
Families who might need further support
Some children struggle with brushing with their teeth due to sensory sensitivities. The Pod has more support on sensory processing and support for your child.
The Special Care Dentistry Team provide dental care for patients who may have a social, psychological or physical disability who need dental care adapted to suit their needs and for those patients with phobias or fears of dental care or those who need adapted surgeries for wheelchair access.
Useful resources
Visit NHS.uk or phone 0300 123 4412 or text 07520 618850 to find your nearest NHS dentist in Kent.