Teen Dental Care & Prevention

The teen years come with a unique set of dental health challenges—and for most parents in Roanoke and Southwest Virginia, this won’t come as a surprise. These formative years bring rapid physical, emotional, and lifestyle changes, and it’s common for dental hygiene to take a back seat. Still, your encouragement matters more than you think.

At North Roanoke Dental Associates, we know that teens often listen more than they let on. Parental reminders—even if they feel like nagging—can make a lasting impact on your teen’s oral health. During adolescence, oral care routines often slip, and increased independence can lead to poor food and drink choices that affect both oral and overall health. Encouraging your teen now helps them avoid long-term issues like cavities and gum inflammation.

We recommend preventive dental checkups every six months with Dr. Brett Rhodes. These visits give us a chance to reinforce the positive steps you're encouraging at home. Our team works to build rapport with teens in a professional yet relaxed setting, which can be surprisingly effective. We often use visual tools to explain early warning signs and praise any progress they’ve made.

Simple ways to support your teen’s dental health at home:

• Limit soda and energy drinks. These acidic, sugar-packed drinks are the leading cause of tooth decay in adolescents. Just one 20-ounce soda can contain up to 18 teaspoons of sugar.

• Encourage brushing before bed. Saliva production decreases at night, allowing bacteria and plaque to flourish. Brushing before sleep is especially important.

• Talk about the risks of sharing toothbrushes. It may seem harmless, but sharing toothbrushes can easily transmit bacteria that cause gum disease and cavities.

• Pack floss picks or toothpicks. Slip a few into their lunchbox, sports bag, or backpack—it’s a subtle way to keep oral care within reach throughout the day.

At North Roanoke Dental Associates, we’re here to partner with families throughout Roanoke and Southwest Virginia, offering friendly support and expert care for teens navigating these pivotal years.