It’s that time of year again! “Senioritis” fills the high school halls as seniors in high school prepare for the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next. High school graduation is right around the corner. While some students will be continuing their education elsewhere, others will be moving into the working world. Either way, graduating seniors will be most likely gaining some independence, and with it, more responsibility.
Unfortunately, many young adults at this stage of life tend to let their oral hygiene habits take a back seat. Let’s look at some oral health problems young adults face during this transition period.
Oral Hygiene Problems
- Gum Disease-lack of good oral hygiene due to changes in routine causes gums to be neglected. Additionally, an increased level of stress also contributes to gum disease.
- Tooth Decay-The prevalence of sugary drinks and acidic foods, especially when studying for long hours, causes an increase in tooth decay.
Solutions
- Schedule cleaning appointments before students leave for college and also when they are home for breaks
- Avoid sipping on sugary or acidic beverages for long periods of time (like when studying)
- Form good oral hygiene habits around new schedules
- Drink water as much as possible
Although we understand this is a very busy time of year, NOW is the time to give Adams and Cheek Dentistry a call to schedule a cleaning appointment for your high school seniors, college students, or students of any age. The sooner patients are scheduled, the more time we also have to address any additional dental needs (such as fillings) before patients leave for college or new jobs. Please call 919.866.1360 or click here to schedule any dental appointment.