Plenty of teens are self-conscious about the way they look, which is likely why so many of them are interested in cosmetic dentistry. But this raises an obvious question: What types of smile-enhancing treatments are appropriate for their age group? As a parent, it’s worth taking the time to learn more about the available options for cosmetic dentistry and whether they’re truly a good choice for your teen.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a very popular cosmetic dentistry option in general, and it could easily pique your teen’s interest if they wish they could have a more dazzling smile. However, if teeth whitening is performed while the teeth are still developing, it could result in discomfort and sensitivity. As such, the procedure is generally only recommended for patients who are at least 16 years old.
Veneers
When it comes to correcting multiple cosmetic dental flaws at once, veneers can be a great option. In some cases, they can be beneficial for teens who have small gaps between their teeth or slight misalignment issues that aren’t necessarily severe enough to warrant braces. That said, in order to qualify for veneers, your teen must have an overall healthy smile that’s free of cavities and gum disease.
Gum Recontouring
Maybe your teen is bothered by the fact that too much gum tissue is visible when they smile. This particular issue can be corrected by gum recontouring, which is a process that involves re-shaping the gumline by removing unneeded tissue. Gum recontouring is generally considered safe for teens. Furthermore, since the removed gum tissue will not grow back, your teen will be able to enjoy the confidence-boosting results of the treatment for the rest of their life.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding
Some smile imperfections are relatively minor, such as slight chips on the front teeth. These types of flaws can often be corrected with cosmetic dental bonding, a procedure that involves covering problem areas on the teeth with composite resin. This treatment is considered suitable for children, teens, and adults alike, and it can be completed in as little as one appointment, making it a good fit for teens who are looking for a quick solution for their smiles.
Bear in mind that every patient is different, and some may be better candidates for cosmetic dentistry than others. The only way to find out for sure whether teeth whitening, veneers, or other smile-improving procedures are right for your teen is to schedule a consultation with their dentist.
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Brong studied dentistry at the University of California, San Francisco. He holds membership with the Minnesota Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and SPEAR Education. At Zumbro Family Dental in Rochester, he welcomes patients of all ages and offers a wide range of cosmetic dentistry options. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brong, visit his website or call (507) 288-1066.
