Does Teeth Whitening Have Consequences on Kids in the Long Term?
What Is Teeth Whitening?
It is a dental protocol entailing the removal of stains from natural teeth to improve a smile’s overall appearance. Teeth whitening treatments generally entail bleaching teeth’ enamel using special whitening products and lasers. The bleaching process dissipates stains to achieve brighter smiles, usually up to four shades whiter than the initial color.
Who Can Whiten Their Teeth?
Teeth whitening is a popular treatment protocol for adults. However, children too can partake in the enamel bleaching procedures to improve their teeth’ color. There have been ongoing debates about whether children should be allowed to undergo teeth whitening or not. Ideally, the treatment is safe for both children and adults. The only requirement would be that a child has developed adult teeth, usually about age 13. The reason is that baby teeth tend to be too sensitive to teeth bleaching procedures.
When Would One Need a Teeth Whitening Treatment?
Dr. Mouna Bosler in Kids First Dental – Columbia does not just administer teeth whitening to every patient. Instead, you need the treatment if you have out-rightly noticeable stains on teeth surfaces that compromise your smile’s appearance. Various factors can discolor your teeth enough to merit professional teeth whitening in Columbia, SC, including the following:
- Poor oral hygiene – if you go long enough without brushing and flossing your teeth, plaque and tartar build-up will stain them. Unfortunately, poor oral hygiene is among the leading reasons why children would need teeth whitening from a kids’ dentist near you.
- Underlying health conditions and medication – certain health problems like diabetes have a direct impact on oral health.
- Pigmented foods and drinks – like colas and fruit sodas can stain teeth, especially if you are not adamant about brushing and flossing your teeth after meals.
- Dental cavities – according to kids’ dentist in 29210, children are more prone to dental cavities between ages 6 and 14. During this period, you may notice brown or dark streaks on your child’s teeth as dental cavities begin to develop.
Must Children Whiten Their Teeth?
Admittedly, teeth whitening is more of an elective treatment protocol in dentistry than a mandatory requirement for excellent oral health. It means that you can opt-out of teeth whitening procedures if you do not mind the initial teeth’ color. However, there are underlying benefits to allowing your child to undergo teeth whitening in a pediatric dental office in Columbia, including:
- Confidence boost – a white, bright smile may be all the help your child needs to poise confidently in social settings.
- Encouraging good oral hygiene – sometimes, teeth whitening is the route that can help your child appreciate the benefits of good oral hygiene. When they notice the brightness of their smile, they may get the needed motivation to be proactive about teeth brushing and flossing.
Effects of Teeth Whitening on Kids
While there are benefits to teeth whitening, you should know a thing or two about the likely complications of teeth whitening for children. It is the best way to prepare in advance so you can reach out to an emergency kids’ dentist in Columbia when the need arises. Some of the consequences of teeth whitening for kids are:
- Heightened tooth sensitivity – can make it quite uncomfortable for your child to eat well. Consider that children’s teeth are not as developed as those of adults.
- Gingival irritations – entail a sensation of discomfort on the gums typical after exposure to hydrogen peroxide products. This experience can be a bit too overwhelming for children to handle.
- Bleached gums – some bleaching products are unfit for children’s dentistry, particularly those that exceed 0.1% of hydrogen peroxide. Therefore, you must be intentional about choosing the right pediatric dentist to handle your child’s oral needs, including teeth whitening treatment.
Summary
Ultimately, you have to make the best decision suitable for your child’s needs and dental health. Ensure you liaise closely with your pediatric dentist of choice to ensure you are making the best call for your child. It is crucial to prioritize your child’s safety and health needs over aesthetics when it comes down to making the final decision.