Nov 23 2008
Posted by admin under Appearance, Beauty, Biscayne Dental Group, Cosmetic Dentistry, Florida, Julio Hernandez, Miami, Women
Women’s Issues Affecting Dental Health & Beauty
Unlike men, women are unique in that they go through different stages throughout their life determined by hormonal fluctuations. These stages can be summarized as: puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. The ages at which these stages occur can also be categorized by a females mating ritual. These stages can also be renamed as: the boyfriend years, the dating years, the reproductive years, and finally the cougar years. Of course, not all women will fall into these latter categories. However, almost all women will relate to the cosmetic decisions made by women in these stages of their lives.
Puberty and early adolescence are the years when girls discover themselves. They learn about their bodies and see the visible changes as they grow. Girls experience puberty at earlier ages than boys and sooner than their previous cohorts. The increase in estrogen and progesterone levels in their bodies makes them feel different. Oral changes noted include changes with the microbial flora in the mouth. Certain gram negative bacteria respond to the increase in hormones by increasing in incidence as well as proportion. This increase is correlated with an increase in gingivitis represented by an overgrowth of gingival tissues and bleeding.
Management of the puberty-induced gingivitis requires a rigorous oral hygiene program. The program includes brushing a minimum of twice per day, especially after meals. Brushing should last a total of two minutes. Daily flossing is also important to remove the plaque in between the teeth where the toothbrush does not reach. Adjunctive treatment may also include an anti-microbial mouth rinse and use of interproximal cleaners. More frequent hygiene appointments may be required in more severe cases.
As the body changes, so does the attitude towards boys. Girls become more aware of boys and become fans of a growing number of teenage boy bands. These will be referred to here as the boyfriend years. They may not necessarily have or be allowed to have boyfriends at this age, but most of them certainly want one. It is these critical years where self-esteem is very important. As adults, we cannot do enough to boost a child’s self-esteem. They are bombarded by the media with certain unrealistic realities of what they should look like and act like. It is the parent’s responsibility to give them every fighting chance to compete in today’s environment.
One simple method is improving the child’s smile. Kids who are embarrassed to smile are more likely to have self-esteem issues. Fortunately, orthodontic treatment with braces is very popular with kids these days. Unlike the days when I was a kid, kids today look forward to getting braces and frequently beg the parents to take them in to the dentist. Parents should not underestimate the power of a good smile. Studies show that an attractive smile makes the person look not only more attractive but also more intelligent, more successful, and more interesting. Think of the advantages your kids will have in the job market in the future. As many of us are aware, we spend most of our lives dealing with issues we could not resolve in our early youth. As parents and teachers it is your responsibility to assure that self-esteem issues are not ignored.
Start with an early consultation with an orthodontist. It is recommended that parents bring in kids for an orthodontic consultation as early as age 7. Many problems that manifest as crooked teeth are actually growth problems. These growth problems are best diagnosed and treated early while the bones are still malleable. Treatment may include a series of orthopedic removable appliances or habit-controlling appliances. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment is usually initiated between the ages of 12 to 14. This treatment may include braces or Invisalign®. The point is to get them smiling- and quickly. This may not guarantee a happy child but it will certainly give them a greater advantage.
Next time we will discuss menstruation and the dating years…stay tuned
