Bright Futures in Practice: Oral Health Pocket Guide National Maternal and Child Oral Health Resource Center
 
ADOLESCENCE • 11–21 YEARS

photo of a group of kidsInterview Questions

Following are examples of questions that health professionals may use. In addition to asking these or other interview questions, discuss any issues or concerns the family has. Ask the adolescent questions directly.

  • How often do you brush and floss your teeth? Do you think it helps?
  • Do you think your teeth look okay?
  • Have your wisdom teeth erupted?
  • When was the last time you went to the dentist?
  • Do you snack at school? After school? What do you eat or drink?
  • Does your school have vending machines? If so, do they offer healthy beverage choices such as water or milk?
  • Do you wear a safety belt while driving or riding in a vehicle?
  • Do you wear a helmet when riding a bicycle? An all-terrain vehicle? Motorcycle?
  • Do you participate in physical activities and sports that could potentially result in injuries to the mouth? Do you wear protective gear (e.g., mouth guard, face protector, helmet)?
  • Do you wear protective mouth gear when you participate in contact sports?
  • What have you heard about smoking or spit tobacco?
  • What do you think about smoking? Spit tobacco? Did you smoke any cigarettes in the last month? Use spit tobacco? How often?
  • When was your last visit to a health professional? Is it time for your next health supervision visit?

Risk Assessment

Use the risk assessment tables (Dental Caries, Periodontal Disease, Malocclusion, Injury) and Caries-Risk Assessment Tool (CAT) to assess the adolescent’s risk and protective factors for oral health issues.

Screening

Visually inspect the lips, tongue, teeth,gums, inside of the cheeks, and roof of the mouth (see Screening in Components of Oral Health Supervision).

Examination

The adolescent should be seen according to a schedule recommended by the dentist, based on the adolescent’s individual needs and susceptibility to disease.