Picture this: your teen got their driver’s license and decides they can take themselves to their own dental checkup this time around. They get to the dentist’s office and the waiting room is all parents with their young children. Growing up is, to put it simply, awkward. Your teen might think they’re too cool or old to visit a pediatric dentist. However, there are many advantages to continuing treatment at least until they turn 18. Here are 3 reasons your teen should visit a pediatric dentist.
Reason #1: Pediatric dentists have specialized training in growing smiles.
Just because they’ve outgrown their baby teeth doesn’t mean your teenager’s smile won’t continue to change for years to come. Although they’ll have permanent, adult teeth, their mouth, gums, and jaw will continue to grow.
Pediatric dentists are specially trained to meet the unique needs and monitor the changes in adolescent and teen smiles. Many patients continue seeing their pediatric dentists until between the ages of 18 and 22, when their mouth is finished growing.
Reason #2: They might encounter wisdom teeth complications.
Although wisdom teeth typically come in between the ages of 17 and 22, that’s not always the case. They can begin to cause complications much earlier. Wisdom teeth can cause crowding and discomfort and collect bacteria that can eventually lead to severe tooth decay.
Your teenager’s pediatric dentist will have all their dental history up until the time their wisdom teeth erupt and closely monitor their development. 90% of patients have at least one impacted wisdom tooth, and their dentist will know when is the best time to remove this third set of molars.
Reason #3: Your teen may need orthodontic services.
Generally speaking, your child’s teenage years are the time to consider orthodontic treatment. As they grow, their jaw growth may not keep up with their permanent teeth, causing issues with bite, crowding, and impaction.
Your teen’s pediatric dentist is aware of specific issues that arise in these years of development that they will look for in their evaluations. As they monitor your teen’s growth, they will be the first to know when it’s time to look for an orthodontist and even have local recommendations.
About the Practice
Drs. Homer Sedighi and Jessica Martin provide preventive, emergency, restorative, sedation, and special needs dentistry to kids of all ages, including teenagers. They are committed to protecting and monitoring your child’s smile throughout the years so they can show off their teeth with confidence. If you want to learn more about how pediatric dentists can help your teenager, contact Dr. Sedighi or Dr. Martin through their website or by phone at (636) 777-7777.