The age of social media has allowed teens to compare themselves to one another in more exquisite detail than ever before. It’s not surprising, then, that many kids these days are interested in how cosmetic dentistry can help them look their best. The truth is that some cosmetic dental treatments are suitable at younger ages and others are not. Here’s a brief overview of which cosmetic dental procedures may be a good fit for your teen.
Can My Child Receive Cosmetic Dentistry?
The teeth are not usually fully developed until a person is in their mid-twenties, and treating a child with certain cosmetic dental procedures can interrupt the way their mouth naturally matures. The only way to know for sure whether your child can receive cosmetic dentistry is to have a consultation with their dentist. During this appointment, you, your child, and their dentist can discuss any concerns and goals for the procedure. Usually, teenagers can be excellent candidates for certain cosmetic dental treatments.
What Cosmetic Dental Treatments Can Teens Receive?
Your dentist may be able to help your teen address unsightly dental flaws through treatments like:
Dental bonding
Kids and teens are known for roughhousing, and that can leave visible chips and cracks in their teeth. To perform dental bonding, a dentist will apply a small amount of tooth-colored composite resin to a dental flaw before shaping it to match the curves of the tooth, covering the defect to restore its appearance. This affordable procedure can be completed painlessly in minutes without anesthesia during a routine dental appointment, and it can even be used to treat gaps and stains.
Teeth whitening
Teens love to look great in photos, and professional teeth whitening treatments can help them have flashier smiles by lifting unsightly stains and discoloration. This can be performed through an in-office procedure that takes about an hour or a take-home kit that can be completed in two weeks. These treatments can leave teeth up to ten shades whiter, which is far better than the results that can be expected from store-bought whitening products.
Metal-free dental restorations
Playing sports can sometimes be hard on a kid’s smile, and metal-free dental crowns can restore teeth to their original shape and strength after injury or infection. These crowns are made from dental porcelain, making them strong, durable, and beautifully lifelike. They usually take only two appointments to place and can last for up to fifteen years with proper care.
Cosmetic dentistry can be a great way for teens to enjoy more beautiful smiles. Consulting with their dentist can determine if any of these treatments are suitable for them.
About the Practice
Smile by Design provides the finest dental health services available in Virginia Beach, VA. Led by Drs. Stephanie L. Santos, Vinita J. Folck, and Madison A. Squire, the staff ensures that each patient receives personalized care with genuine compassion. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening, dental bonding, and metal-free dental restorations. To schedule a cosmetic dental consultation for your teen, contact the office online or dial (757) 499-9639.