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Chapter 13: Adolescent Oral Health
Introduction
Continued focus on oral health during the adolescent period is important. Many childhood risk factors persist and new oral health risk factors may emerge during adolescence. Opportunities exist to prepare, educate, and empower adolescents to take control of their oral health as they move towards adulthood. Because adolescents often have an increased focus on personal aesthetics, this can provide an opening to discuss oral health knowledge and behaviors during office visits.

Sections
1.
 Dental Caries
2.
 Gingivitis
3.
 Periodontal Disease
4.
 Trauma
5.
 Tobacco
6.
 Illicit Drugs
7.
 Oral Cancer
8.
 Oral Piercing and Grills
9.
 Key Points
10.
 Self-Assessment Questions
 
Upon chapter completion, participants will be able to:
 
1.
 List common risk factors for dental caries during adolescence.
 
2.
 Define periodontitis and gingivitis and state clinical signs, risk factors, and anticipatory guidance regarding periodontal disease.
 
3.
 Discuss the prevalence of tobacco use among US adolescents and oral effects of tobacco.
 
4.
 Recall the adverse oral effects of marijuana and methamphetamines.
 
5.
 List common signs of oral cancer.
 
4.
 Cite the AAP and AAPD stance on oral piercings, and counsel a patient on the risks associated with oral piercings.
View the Chapter 13 Photo Gallery.