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Nearly 80% of 17-year-olds have had at least one cavity in their lifetime. |
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Frequent snacking and regular exposure to acidic drinks such as soda are common risks for caries in adolescents. |
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A review of oral hygiene practices, diet, and fluoride intake is important at all routine visits. |
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Fluoride supplementation should continue until age 16 for all eligible children. |
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Gingivitis is very common among adolescents. |
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Laxity in oral hygiene results in plaque accumulation, which triggers an inflammatory response. |
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Bleeding with brushing or flossing is the most common symptom of gingivitis. |
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Periodontal disease is very common among adolescents. |
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Periodontitis is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults. |
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Pubertal hormonal changes, hormonal contraceptives, and pregnancy all increase the risk of developing periodontitis. |
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Tobacco use significantly increases the risk for development of periodontal disease. |
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The risk for oral trauma increases in adolescence. |
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Substance abuse, risk-taking, and violence are risk factors for oral trauma that increase during adolescence. |
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Adolescents who participate in athletics should be counseled to wear protective mouth gear for games and practices. |
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26% of high school students in the United States report some tobacco use. |
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Tobacco use promotes calculus formation, which in turn, increases the risk for periodontal disease. |
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All forms of tobacco are carcinogenic. |
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8.9% of all high school students used smokeless tobacco. |
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Methamphetamine use can cause rapid progression of caries in a distinctive pattern - a condition known as meth mouth. |
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Marijuana use promotes the development of gingivitis, periodontal disease, and cancer. |
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All forms of tobacco can cause oral cancer. |
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The oral examination in adolescents who use tobacco should include an exam for early signs of oral cancer. |
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Leukoplakia may be a precancerous lesion and should be examined by an oral health professional. |
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The use of tobacco products and cessation options should be discussed at all routine health care visits. |
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The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend against all oral piercings. |
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The most common procedure-related risks are swelling, bleeding, and infection. |
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Oral piercings commonly injure the gums, tongue, or teeth. |
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Allergic reactions to the metal in piercings and grills may be delayed. |
