- Oral pain can occur among teenagers due to various factors, including orthodontic treatment, wisdom teeth, canker sores, gum disease, and trauma.
- Oral pain can affect a teenager’s self-esteem, daily life, and socializing.
- Managing oral pain involves visiting the dentist regularly, teaching good oral hygiene habits, encouraging a healthy diet, and replacing missing teeth.
- Stress is known to cause canker sores in teenagers; thus, parents need to help manage their stress levels.
- Good oral health is essential for teenagers; parents should educate them on proper care and seek medical advice if they experience pain.
As parents, you want nothing but the best for your children. You ensure that they eat healthy, exercise, and are up to date with their vaccinations. However, one thing we often overlook is oral health. It’s common for teenagers to experience pain in their mouth, possibly due to several reasons. As parents, we are responsible for identifying the cause of the pain and taking necessary measures.
Oral Pain Among Teenagers
Chronic oral pain can happen among teenagers. It results from various factors. Here’s a deeper look at their oral pain, how it can affect their lives, and how you can help treat it.
Orthodontic Treatment
If your teenager is undergoing orthodontic treatment, they may experience discomfort, especially after getting braces or readjusting them. The pain may last for a few days to a week, and it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene to avoid issues such as gum disease or tooth decay. Encourage your teenager to brush twice daily, floss, and use mouthwash if required.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge when a person is between 17 to 25 years old. As they try to find a place to settle, they can cause pain and discomfort, resulting in swelling and infection. Your teenager may need to get their wisdom teeth extracted, and consulting a dentist is recommended.
Canker Sores
Canker sores are painful lesions that occur inside the mouth and on the tongue. They are often caused due to stress, injury, or consumption of certain foods. Canker sores are not contagious, but they can be annoying and painful. Encourage your teenager to use over-the-counter ointments that provide relief.
Gum Disease
Gum disease or periodontitis can cause pain and swelling. It occurs due to the buildup of plaque, which, if ignored, can lead to tooth decay and loss. Encouraging your teenager to brush, floss, and use mouthwash daily is necessary to avoid gum disease. Consult a dentist if the pain persists.
Trauma
Physical trauma to the mouth due to an injury or accident can cause intense pain. In some cases, the teeth may become loose or damaged. If your teenager experiences trauma, seeking medical attention immediately is crucial.
How Oral Pain Can Affect Teenagers’ Lives
There are various ways oral pain can affect teenagers’ lives. Here are some of them:
Self-Esteem
One of the most crucial factors for teenagers is their physical appearance. If they experience oral pain, it can affect their self-esteem and confidence levels.
Daily Life
Oral pain can make everyday tasks such as eating or talking difficult and uncomfortable. It affects the quality of life, leading to depression and anxiety.
Socializing
If a teenager has a dental issue, it may stop them from engaging in social activities with their peers. They may become isolated due to the fear of feeling embarrassed about their condition.
Managing Oral Pain Among Teenagers
To manage oral pain among teenagers, you need to take the following steps:
Visit a Dentist Regularly
Visiting a dentist regularly ensures your teenager’s oral health is in good condition. If there are any underlying issues, they can be addressed quickly and prevented from worsening.
Teach Oral Hygiene Habits
Educate teenagers on the importance of oral hygiene habits like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash daily. This will lower their risk of developing gum disease or other dental issues.
Encourage a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is essential for maintaining overall and oral health. Encourage your teenager to consume nutritious foods that provide all the necessary nutrients for keeping teeth and gums healthy.
Replace Any Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can lead to increased oral pain as it puts more pressure on the gums and exposes them to viruses and bacteria. Teenagers aged 18 and above can get robust tooth implants for missing teeth. This can reduce the chances of any oral pain or discomfort. It can even decrease the chances of oral cancer in the future.
Manage Stress Levels
Stress is one of the primary causes of canker sores among teenagers. Help them manage stress levels by encouraging them to participate in yoga, meditation, or any other hobby.
The importance of oral health should not be overlooked. As parents, educate your teenager on the importance of caring for their teeth and gums and seeking medical advice if they experience pain. This will help them maintain good oral health and avoid any long-term issues.
