Can Kids Get Teeth Whitening?

Before you know it, your child is all grown up. Teens are more concerned about their appearance because they like to maintain a social status. Your kid’s first set of teeth is all shiny, and it feels like their smile brightens the room.

When they outgrow their baby teeth, the second set isn’t as white as their primary teeth. This is completely natural, but the change often leaves children wondering whether they should get teeth whitening.

While there’s no specific age for getting this dental procedure, pediatric dentists in Columbus, Ohio, recommend holding off until the child turns 15. The reason is that the tooth pulp isn’t fully formed before this age, making the gums more sensitive to chemicals. It is also possible that the tooth enamel might break down, leading to dental complications bigger than stained teeth.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that teeth whitening for children should be cautiously approached and only considered in specific situations. These include:

• When teeth discoloration is caused by certain medications, illness, or trauma. In such cases, it can be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
• If other interventions, such as improved oral hygiene practices or addressing underlying dental issues, do not resolve the discoloration, teeth whitening may be considered as a last resort.

Teeth Whitening Alternatives

• Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene: Regular and thorough brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash can prevent stains and maintain the natural whiteness of your kid’s teeth.
• Eating Fruits and Vegetables: Crunchy fruits and vegetables like carrots, apples, and celery act as natural teeth cleaners by increasing saliva production and scrubbing away plaque.
• Dietary Adjustments: Limit your kid’s consumption of staining substances such as coffee, chocolate, and dark-colored berries.

In conclusion, parents should emphasize the importance of good oral hygiene habits for children. This will teach them to maintain a cleaning routine from the moment they learn to hold a brush.

Little Smiles of Delaware is a dental practice that offers pediatric dentistry in Columbus. Dr. Ben Kwok has a gentle touch when it comes to inspecting kids’ teeth. For more information, call (740) 209-2400.