Can My Child Benefit from Cosmetic Dentistry?

Insecurities about the appearance of teeth aren’t limited to adults. There are many teens out there that are unhappy about how their smile looks, and it can take a toll on their self-esteem. Fortunately, there are several tooth replacement options out there that can help teens to feel more confident about showing off their smile. Read on to learn about a few popular cosmetic dental options that your teen may benefit from.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening isn’t usually a good idea for kids who are still growing, but if your teen has a fully developed smile, which usually happens at the age of 16, they may be a good candidate for teeth whitening. This way, surface stains and discoloration can be lifted. After checking their smile for any preexisting issues, their dentist will apply the bleaching agent and allow it to sit for 15-minute intervals until the desired results are achieved. If your teen would rather whiten their teeth at home, take-home teeth whitening is also available. It is important that you seek advice from their dentist to determine if this treatment is right for them.

Dental Bonding

Chips, gaps, and stains aren’t exclusively issues for adults. Teens can experience the same thing. If your child is an athlete and has experienced a mild dental injury when they were out on the field, or they have a few unsightly gaps, these aren’t things that you need to live with. With the use of a tooth-colored resin, their dentist can correct mild aesthetic issues that they aren’t comfortable showing off.

ClearCorrect

Metal braces leave patients with beautiful results, but many teens don’t want to be showing off a smile that is full of metal brackets and wires for who knows how long. Instead, ClearCorrect aligners are an alternative option. This treatment uses a series of clear, customized aligners that apply gentle pressure to the teeth to straighten them. They are virtually invisible, and no one will even be able to tell that your teen is wearing them. They also won’t need to worry about any diet changes. They just need to remove their aligners before eating, and thoroughly clean their teeth before putting them back in!

Cosmetic dentistry isn’t just for adults. Teens can benefit as well. Talk to their dentist to come up with a plan that works best for your child. This way, they can show off their smile with pride!

About the Author

Dr. John T. Thompson is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than three decades. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Baylor College of Dentistry and is committed to completing numerous hours of continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. He was awarded Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry and is a proud member of the Texas Dental Association. To learn more about cosmetic dentistry or to schedule an appointment for your child, visit his website or call (361) 242-3151.