Oral Health for Adolescents: Clinical Report

This clinical report marks a significant milestone in the United States, addressing oral health in the adolescent from the pediatrician's perspective. Poor oral health can affect adolescents in many ways, including pain, missed school, overall health, and decreased social engagement. Oral health issues particularly pertinent to adolescents include oral sports injury prevention, orthodontic issues, and certain behaviors contributing to poor oral health outcomes. This statement will provide pediatricians: Evidence-based information on practice-based skills for the prevention and management of oral health issues in adolescent patients. Recommendations to incorporate these skills in the health supervision visit.