As one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures in the world, teeth whitening brings many benefits to the mouth. Aside from looking fabulous, you can also feel healthy and clean when you’re sporting a smile full of dazzling pearly whites. But how old do you have to be before you can start enjoying the advantages of this procedure? Can kids get teeth whitening at an early age?
Can Kids Get Teeth Whitening?
There are some cases where children can invest in the teeth whitening procedure as well. But this treatment is only necessary if the teeth have become yellowed or stained after eating sugary substances. Keep reading to learn who exactly qualifies for teeth whitening in Glendora.
Why Get Teeth Whitening?
Why would a kid want to get their teeth whitened in the first place? There are many reasons, but perhaps the biggest is tooth discoloration. This occurs when the teeth become stained due to food, drinks, poor hygiene habits, or physical injury. Over time, the teeth may become more yellow and brown, leading to an unsavory smile.
If your child is dealing with some major tooth stains and it is affecting their self-confidence, they may be the perfect candidate for a teeth whitening procedure. However, it is important to first meet with your pediatric dentist about the right kind of teeth whitening, as well as the benefits and risks associated with this treatment.
How Children’s Teeth Get Discolored
Most of the patients who invest in teeth whitening procedures are adults whose teeth have been through years of staining and misuse. So, what would cause a child to need this procedure as well? There are actually a few different causes of tooth discoloration in kids, including:
- Tooth decay
- Trauma to the teeth or nerves
- Food and beverage stains (too many sugary or dark substances)
- Bad dental hygiene
- Medications or supplements with iron
If you are worried about the state of your child’s teeth, you should seek a family dentistry appointment right away. It is possible that there are underlying issues, such as tooth decay and cavities, that may need to be treated before you can consider a tooth whitening procedure.
Teeth Whitening for Kids: Benefits and Risks
Overall, there is almost no harm done in trying out a tooth whitening procedure. If your children’s teeth are stained and yellowed and it is affecting their self-esteem, it could be in their best interest to schedule a tooth whitening appointment. The AADP recognizes teeth whitening as a safe and appropriate procedure for children, as long as it is done under supervision.
Without supervision, the whitening agent may be left on the teeth for too long, which can eventually cause some gum irritation and tooth sensitivity. This is why tooth whitening should always be performed under the guidance of an adult. This is true whether you opt for an in-office procedure or you buy over-the-counter whitening strips from the store.
How Kids Can Prevent Tooth Stains
There may be some cases where tooth whitening is not an option. Or you do not find the treatment necessary for your child. You can still help your child prevent stains on their teeth by practicing good oral hygiene habits at home.
Certain food and drink substances, such as sodas, tomato sauce, and chocolate, should be cut back since those are the biggest tooth stainers around. Make sure your child knows how to take care of their teeth by brushing them every morning and every night.
Get Rid of Tooth Stains Today!
Our friendly experts at your local Glendora dental office can help you decide whether or not a tooth whitening procedure is the best option for your child. By practicing good oral hygiene, your child can learn how to prevent discoloration, so no teeth whitening treatments are necessary. Learn more about stain prevention and other helpful dental hygiene tips when you call us today!
