There is nothing that attracts attention more than a bright, white smile. Unfortunately, as we age, so do our teeth. They pick up stains, discoloration, and cavities along the way. Hence, it is important to visit the dentist regularly, we recommend a deep teeth cleaning by a Dentist in friendswood.
Teeth whitening is the perfect solution for keeping your smile sparkling, but what about your kids. Is teeth whitening safe for them? Read on for the inside scoop.
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Is Teeth Whitening Safe for Children?
The short answer to this question is yes, but with a few stipulations:
- Does your child have all their adult teeth?
- Has the enamel solidified?
- Are they finished with any oral surgeries and orthodontic treatments?
If the answer to all these questions is yes, your child is a great candidate for tooth whitening. However, before breaking out the teeth whitening products, you might want to consider the risks and benefits involved.
Benefits of Tooth Whitening
Having sparkling white teeth is a great self-esteem booster for both children and adults. It’s also a great way to promote long-term dental health. As mentioned by a family dentist in Stafford, teeth whitening products help remove thin layers of plaque that lead to cavities
Teeth whitening agents don’t have to be expensive. There are lots of different options to fit any budget. The effectiveness and durability of these options may vary.
Risks of Teeth Whitening for Kids
There is a small chance of side effects when whitening children’s teeth. Many teeth whitening products utilize harsh chemicals that can leave gums feeling irritated or sore. There is also an increased chance of developing sensitive teeth.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that teeth whitening, safe as it is, be supervised by an adult. They also encourage speaking to a dentist before whitening children’s teeth.
Teeth Whitening Products
Once you’re gotten the go-ahead from your dentist, you’ll need to pick teeth whitening safe products for your kids. These are the most common options.
Whitening Toothpaste
These teeth whitening agents work by targeting surface stains, breaking them down over time. They tend to be cheaper options, but it might take a while before you see any noticeable difference.
Whitening Strips
You can buy these from your local pharmacy or supermarket. Like professional services, they utilize hydrogen peroxide to eliminate teeth discoloration.
Whitening Gel and Trays
Although there are some over-the-counter options for this method, most of the time, you’ll have to go through your dentist. This treatment tends to be a bit more powerful to target those deep-set stains.
Professional Services
Whitening children’s teeth at a dentist’s office involves using a special kind of heat lamp. First, the child’s teeth are coated in a concentrated tooth whitening gel. Then they are blasted with the lamp for specific time intervals.
Still not sure what whitening products are right for your kid? There are plenty of resources, like fermeliadental.com, that can provide you with more guidance.
Keep That Smile Shining Bright
The moral of the story is, “teeth whitening: safe, easy, and beneficial for all.” However, that doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. Take some time to consider your options and talk with your dentist before making any major decisions, especially for your kids.
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