Posted on 5/9/2022 by Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry
After your kid loses her primary teeth and secondary teeth start erupting, you may notice that the permanent or secondary set is not as white as the previous primary teeth. If this is the case, there is nothing you should worry about. It is pretty natural. The kid's primary teeth tend to be much whiter compared to permanent teeth. However, this change may leave parents asking if they should let their kid whiten their teeth. Also, as teens grow older, they become self-conscious and begin to question their parents regarding teeth whitening.
Dentists Suggest Holding Off
There may be no specific age when a kid should start whitening their teeth, however, dentists agree that parents should delay the procedure being performed on their kids until somewhere between 14 to 18 years old. Dentists feel that before starting teeth whitening, the tooth pulp within the permanent teeth needs to have fully formed in order to prevent tooth sensitivity or other complications. Often, most teens will have their pulp fully developed by around the age of 15. Whitening the teeth too early may damage the gum tissue or even break down the enamel of young adults.
Let the kid hold off using OTC whitening options as well. A majority of these products have hydrogen peroxide, which can be harsh for the teeth of young adults if used inappropriately. Though generally safe for adults, over-the-counter whitening products may be incorrectly used by young adults.
Alternatives to Tooth Whitening
Kids who wear braces may have some areas that appear whiter than others, and it is quite normal. But teens and kids may want to whiten their teeth after they finish wearing braces. Until a dentist okays the use of whitening products or procedures, you may consider these alternatives. First, avoid drinks or foods likely to stain teeth such as sports drinks and sodas. Secondly, try a whitening toothpaste, because they are safer for children than OTC trays and strips. Book your child for a routine checkup and cleaning. A professional will clean the teeth of the kid, leaving them looking fresh and beautiful. Set up an appointment now.
Blog - Wichita, KS • Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry At Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Healy created this informative blog to assist with educating the community about various topics of pediatric dentistry. Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry, 3933 N. Maize Road, Suite 200 Wichita, KS 67101 ~ (316) 202-9629 ~ tinyteethwichita.com ~ 10/3/2024 ~ Page Keywords: Pediatric Dentist Wichita KS ~
After your kid loses her primary teeth and secondary teeth start erupting, you may notice that the permanent or secondary set is not as white as the previous primary teeth. If this is the case, there is nothing you should worry about. It is pretty natural. The kid's primary teeth tend to be much whiter compared to permanent teeth. However, this change may leave parents asking if they should let their kid whiten their teeth. Also, as teens grow older, they become self-conscious and begin to question their parents regarding teeth whitening. 