The teenage years are full of emotions, changes, and new experiences. You may be preparing for your first date, mastering driving skills, shaving for the first time, and preparing for college or a career. As these changes take place it is important to remember that practicing good nutrition and oral hygiene habits at home are particularly important during the teen years.

Creating healthy habits as a teenager can help create the foundation for continued health throughout adulthood. Here are some recommended tips to get you on your way:

Mouth guards: If you participate in contact sports a mouth guard is a great way to help protect your pearly whites. A custom made mouth guard is usually more comfortable, but a store bought 'do it yourself' kit does just as well.

Sugarless gum: Chewing sugarless gum (with xyletol) after meals can help freshen breath and reduce cavity formation. Drinking water throughout the day can also help cleanse the mouth and remove food debris.

Tongue piercings: These trendy body art decorations can wreak havoc on your mouth. Chipped teeth, receded gums, and infection are common in people who have their tongues pierced, and unclean piercing equipment can lead to infections such as blood born hepatitis.

Soda: Constantly drinking soda can do a number on your teeth. The sugar and acid in soda work together to erode your pearly whites, but there are precautions you can take to diminish the effects; drinking soda from a straw reduces the time it comes in contact with your teeth. It's also beneficial to avoid sipping constantly throughout the day (instead, just drink your soda all at once). Rinsing your mouth with water will help, but do not brush right after drinking acidic drinks.

Wisdom teeth: These unnecessary teeth generally appear between the ages of 17 and 25. It is generally best to have these teeth out early to avoid complications later.

Sealants: Sealants are thin protective coatings that fill in the natural pits and fissures in your teeth. Cavities tend to form in these areas, and sealants effectively block out the cavity causing bacteria. Sealants are an inexpensive, proactive procedure to protect your teeth.

Braces: If you wear custom made appliances or dental braces, pay special attention to keeping the spaces between the teeth and wires clean by using floss or other tools recommended by your dentist. Orthodontic toothbrushes are specially designed to make cleaning teeth and braces easier.

Clear Braces: Many young adults are choosing to use clear braces as an alternative to wires. Clear braces look better, and they can make it easier to keep teeth clean. Options for orthodontic treatment have changed dramatically over the past few years making it quicker and better looking than previous options.

Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once can pave the way for healthy teeth into adulthood. It is also important to visit the dentist twice a year to catch and correct minor problems before they become major issues.

Dr. Logan Hazard recently opened Heartwood Family Dental in Post Falls. At Heartwood we offer free exams and x-rays for all new patients, treatment for the entire family, a wonderful team, and acceptance of all insurances in the area. Call Justine today at (208) 777-1542.