One of the biggest changes to occur in puberty is the rise in hormones. Both males and females go through major hormone changes, including the growth of estrogen and testosterone.
How puberty affects your gums
Puberty can have a variety of effects on your gums. During this time, your body undergoes a lot of changes and your mouth is no exception. Increased hormone levels can cause your gums to become more sensitive and prone to inflammation. Your gums may become redder and swollen, and may even bleed more easily when brushing or flossing. In addition, you may be more susceptible to gum disease and gingivitis during puberty due to the changes in your hormones.
Start healthy habits young
Healthy snacking/drinking habits are paramount in the teen years as they take over more responsibility for their own diets and oral hygiene. Teaching kids about what is in the foods they eat is a great way to help them develop healthy eating habits.
Teach kids about processed foods and sugars
Teaching kids about processed foods and sugars is an important lesson for them to learn early on. There are a few ways you can introduce this topic to children. One way is to talk about the differences between processed foods and whole foods. Some of these include:
- potato chips
- candy
- canned goods
- sugary beverages
- sweetened breakfast cereals
Then compare them to whole foods like fresh fruits and vegetables. Explain to them that processed foods often have added sugars and preservatives and that these can be bad for their health. You can also have them help you look at food labels, so they can learn how to read nutrition facts and understand what ingredients are in their food.
Finally, you can teach them how to make healthy food choices, such as eating a balanced diet, avoiding added sugars and fats, and making sure they get enough fruits and vegetables. With these tips, they can make informed decisions about what they eat and lead healthier lifestyles.
