Teeth Whitening for Teens
About Teeth Whitening for Teens
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that lightens the shade of your teeth, removing stains and discoloration.
Teeth whitening is a great option for teenagers that have all of their permanent (adult) teeth. Professional teeth whitening is the safest, and most effective way to achieve a brighter smile.
Key Takeaway
Professional teeth whitening systems offered by a dental professional are the safest and most effective way to whiten teeth. Teenagers can benefit from these treatments as soon as they have all of their permanent teeth.
Understanding Teeth Stains
Your teeth have two layers: the outer enamel and the inner dentin.
Stains can occur on both layers, leading to discoloration.
- Extrinsic stains: These are stains that occur on the surface of the tooth enamel. They are often caused by external factors such as coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco, or certain foods.
- Intrinsic stains: These stains develop within the tooth’s structure and may be caused by factors such as genetics, trauma, or excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development.
Professional Teeth Whitening Options
We offer two professional teeth whitening systems: Philips Zoom! DayWhite and Opalescence Go.
- Philips Zoom! DayWhite: This take-home whitening system allows you to whiten your teeth conveniently in the comfort of your own home. With custom whitening trays and professional-grade whitening gel containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, you can achieve noticeable results in just a few weeks.
- Opalescence Go: This ready-to-use whitening system offers a hassle-free approach to teeth whitening. The pre-filled trays contain a mild yet effective whitening gel that adheres to your teeth, providing a comfortable and easy application process.
Professional vs. Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening
While OTC whitening products may seem convenient, they do not offer the same benefits as professional whitening options.
They can be overused or used incorrectly, leading to potential harm to the tooth enamel, gum irritation, or uneven results.
Professional teeth whitening is tailored to your specific needs and closely monitored by dental professionals.
The whitening gel used in professional treatments is formulated to minimize sensitivity while effectively removing stains, providing you with a safe and predictable outcome.
Did You Know…
Charcoal toothpaste and other DIY whitening methods can be harmful to your teeth. The abrasive nature of these products can damage your enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and increased risk of cavities.
Age Considerations for Teeth Whitening
We recommend teeth whitening to our teenage patients that have all of their adult teeth and good oral hygiene habits.
Young children with mixed dentition (a combination of primary and permanent teeth) should not use teeth whitening products. Instead, they can benefit from alternative treatments such as enamel microabrasion.
Enamel Microabrasion
This procedure involves the removal of a thin layer of enamel using a mixture of abrasive particles and an acidic compound.
It helps to improve the appearance of teeth affected by superficial stains or mild enamel defects. While enamel microabrasion can provide significant aesthetic improvements, it’s important to note that it may not be suitable for all cases.
The Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening offers many benefits, including:
- Safe and effective results
- Personalized treatment tailored to your needs
- Longer-lasting and more noticeable results compared to OTC products
- Reduced risk of side effects or damage to tooth enamel
Tips to Keep Your Smile Bright
Here are some tips to maintain a bright and healthy smile:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth.
- Limit consumption of stain-causing foods and beverages.
- Do not smoke or vape.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to keep your teeth healthy and identify any potential issues early on.
Teeth whitening is just one of the many services we offer at Stanley Pediatric Dentistry.
Our team is dedicated to providing gentle and comprehensive dental care for children and teenagers in Overland Park, KS and the surrounding communities.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about our teeth whitening options for teens!
If you are searching for a pediatric dentist that is accepting new patients, we can help! To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Overland Park, KS, call (913) 345-0331 or complete the online inquiry form.
FAQS
What is the main reason for yellow teeth?
Yellow teeth can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, diet, and certain medications. However, the most common cause is poor oral hygiene and plaque build-up on the teeth.
Is it safe for teens to use teeth whitening products?
Yes, as long as they have all of their permanent (adult) teeth and good oral hygiene habits. It’s important to consult with a pediatric dentist before starting any teeth whitening treatment to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your child.
Can a 14-year-old use Crest Whitestrips?
According to Crest, their Whitestrips are safe for adults and children over the age of 12. However, it’s important to consult with a dentist before using any OTC whitening products. We recommend waiting until all adult teeth are in, which usually happens around the age of 14.
What is the best age for teeth whitening?
The best age for teeth whitening is when all permanent teeth have erupted and good oral hygiene habits are established. We recommend teeth whitening to our teen patients that have good oral health and good oral hygiene habits.
How can I whiten my 12-year-old’s teeth?
We do not recommend teeth whitening for children under the age of 12. However, you can help your child maintain a bright smile by encouraging good oral hygiene habits and limiting their consumption of stain-causing foods and beverages. Enamel microabrasion may also be an option for children with mild enamel defects or superficial staining.
