The facts 4 teens! Read all about your smile.

Some facts about your teeth and smile!

Fact 1: You have not outgrown tooth decay.  In fact, dental decay may be more of a problem for you during your teen years than ever before.
Fact 2: Gum disease (gingivitis) is a risk to your dental health.  It is also a threat to your appearance.  Gum disease causes swollen, bleeding gums and bad breath.
Fact 3: By this age, you will have all of your permanent teeth with the possible exception of your third molars (wisdom teeth).  During these growing years your face and jaws will undergo many changes.  You can be healthy and attractive through these years by taking good care of your teeth and regularly visiting your pediatric dentist.

Ideas to maintain a healthy smile:

Eat intelligently.  Life is hectic now.  Choose fresh fruit and vegetables instead of junk foods when you're on the run.
Snack Smartly.  Be careful of snacks that contain high sugar content.  Selecting snacks with low sugar is especially important when you don't have time to brush and floss.
Practice good oral hygiene twice daily.  Brush effectively using fluoridated toothpaste.  Use floss to prevent decay between your teeth.
Keep up with your six month checkups.  Dental cleanings, fluoride treatments and sealants are important preventive services for you.
Don't smoke or use chewing tobacco.  The warnings you hear and read about are true.  Besides heart and lung problems, tobacco can cause oral cancer.  If you are using tobacco and notice any changes in your mouth, contact your doctor immediately
Wear a mouthguard for any sport in which your mouth can be injured.  Buckle up in the car.  A seat belt and shoulder harness can help prevent your face from striking the steering wheel, dash board or windshield in the event of an accident.

Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pong will be glad to talk with you about how your teeth look.  If you feel your teeth are too dark, there are techniques available to safely whiten your teeth.  If your teeth are chipped or widely spaced there are new procedures in esthetic dentistry to help you look your best.  During your teen years, your wisdom teeth (third molars) will be developing.  Although some wisdom teeth come into your mouth normally, others may need to be removed because of poor position or lack of space.  Dr. Rubin or Dr. Pong will make sure the proper treatment is prescribed at the right time.

If you are concerned about your bite, crooked teeth or the appearance of your smile, Dr. Rubin or Dr. Pong can give you advice on correcting these problems.  Dentistry for adolescents and teens is a fundamental part of the advanced training of a pediatric dentist.  Your dental health and appearance are important to you and to us!  Thanks for taking the time to read through these important comments.


Let's keep your smile sparkling and healthy!


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Dr. Ron Rubin and Dr. Cindy Pong are members of The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry