A tough period of time for many kids is adolescence, the fairly tumultuous phase of life <\/a>where kids are going through puberty and gradually shifting from preteens into teenagers. A lot of physical and psychological changes happen at this time, with one of the biggest being body image and self-esteem.<\/p>\n As a parent of a preteen or teenager, you might notice that your child has started to become much more aware of how they look physically. They might compare themselves to friends or people they follow on social media. You might even hear your son or daughter voice their self-esteem troubles with self-defeating remarks like, “I wish I was skinny” or “I wish I was more athletic.”<\/p>\n Encouraging positive body image is important to parents, but many parenting books, magazines, and blogs tend to focus specifically on body weight or body shape. Your child’s smile and oral health play an equal role in their self-esteem and body confidence.<\/p>\n The topic of poor oral health tends to focus on physical effects. As a parent, you want your child to have a healthy smile in order to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and the fillings, dental crowns, and other treatments that follow those dental issues. A healthier smile also means fewer emergency dental appointments and surprise toothaches.<\/p>\n Studies show<\/a> that a great smile is an integral part of success in life. This doesn’t mean a smile that isn’t conventionally attractive will lead to failure, but that a healthy, attractive smile tends to increase success in relationships and careers. While this study focuses on professional adults, the very same findings can apply directly to teenagers.<\/p>\n Teens with a bright, healthy smile and straight teeth may find it easier to make friends, develop relationships with teachers, and eventually do well with job or college interviews. A big reason for this is confidence. The more confident your child or teen feels about their smile, the more likely they will happily share their grin with the world. This in turn makes your child seem more happy, friendly, and confident to those around them.<\/p>\n If your child isn’t feeling confident about their smile at the moment, there’s plenty you can do to help them get a smile they’ll feel proud to show off!<\/p>\n The first thing is to focus on your child’s oral healt<\/a>h. The foundation of a beautiful smile is optimal oral health, after all. Once your child has achieved a healthy, decay-free smile, the second thing is to consult their pediatric dentist to see what restorative or cosmetic dental work can further help.<\/p>\n The basics of a great dental care routine for your child include:<\/p>\n If your preteen or teen is concerned about having fresh breath, a tongue scraper can be a great tool to add to their routine. You may also upgrade your child to a powered toothbrush with soft bristles for an even better clean.<\/p>\n Preventive dental care appointments ensure your child’s on the right path toward excellent oral health. These check-ups give their pediatric dentist a chance to catch early warning signs of trouble before they become a big problem. An in-depth cleaning with a hygienist also removes plaque build-up to help with cavity prevention.<\/p>\n Kids of all ages should visit their pediatric dentist every 6 months unless otherwise directed.<\/p>\n If your child is concerned with how their smile looks, there are many options available for older preteens and teens.<\/p>\n Crooked or misaligned teeth can be fixed with orthodontic care. Yellowed or stained teeth may be brightened with supervised professional whitening. Permanently damaged teeth may be covered with a beautiful dental crown. Even missing adult teeth can be replaced with a dental implant or bridge.<\/p>\nExploring the Psychological Impact of Oral Health on Kids<\/h2>\n
The physical health benefits of your child’s smile are huge, but the psychological impact is also highly influential on their self-esteem.<\/h3>\n
How to Help Kids Build Smile Confidence Through Lifelong Oral Health Habits and Dental Care<\/h2>\n
Optimal oral health begins at home with a thorough dental care routine.<\/h3>\n
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Schedule your child’s preventive care appointment every 6 months.<\/h3>\n
Cosmetic and restorative pediatric dental care is a great finishing touch.<\/h3>\n