Looking after your teeth and gums

You will probably have lost all of your baby teeth by now, and started growing most of your adult teeth. Your wisdom teeth will not appear until you are well into your late teens or twenties.

You may need to wear braces or other orthodontic devices to straighten your teeth. Many teenagers wear braces during puberty (so do some adults later in life) so don’t feel too down if you need to wear them. Think about the terrific smile you’ll be flashing at the end!

Brushing

Your teeth will need regular cleaning to prevent tooth decay and the build-up of harmful bacteria in your mouth that can cause bad breath. As a teenager, sweet-smelling breath and sparkling clean and healthy teeth will really boost your self-confidence. Clean your teeth at least twice a day, and floss between your teeth at least once a day. If you wear braces, cleaning is especially important to dislodge the food particles caught in your mouth.

Make sure your toothbrush is the right size for you. Generally a soft-bristle brush with a head and shape that allows you to easily reach all of your teeth is best. When the bristles are worn and look shaggy, replace your toothbrush. Dentists recommend you replace your toothbrush every three months. If you are unsure about what size toothbrush to use, see your dentist for advice.

Flossing

Gum disease is a big cause of tooth loss later in life. Flossing helps to prevent cavities and tooth loss, and stimulates your gums and keep them healthy. Flossing is particularly important for removing the plaque that builds on the teeth, which remains even after brushing. Your dentist or chemist can give you a plaque-disclosing dye that will reveal just how much plaque remains on your teeth after brushing. This exercise should encourage you to floss your teeth at least once a day.

Your breath will reflect your diet and general health. The best thing you can do is to eat healthy food, stay healthy by sleeping well and exercising, and eat sweet foods in moderation. Sweet foods and sugary drinks can cause decay and cavities in your teeth if they are not properly cleaned after eating. Smoking can cause bad breath and the chemicals in cigarettes may stain your teeth. Try to take care of your teeth so that they last a lifetime.