With a high-quality camera in their pocket at all times and social media influencers creating an entirely new beauty standard, it’s not surprising that teens are more aware of their appearance than ever before. With that being said, it may still come as a shock to you when your child confides in you just how self-conscious they are about their smile. Now you probably have an important question on your mind, “Is my child too young for cosmetic dentistry?” Keep reading to learn the answer.
So, Is My Child Too Young for Cosmetic Dentistry?
Since many parents think of teeth-altering treatments, like veneers, when they think of cosmetic dentistry, it’s evident why there is some reservation. However, there are services that enhance your child’s smile and are completely safe. Therefore, the best way to determine the answer to this question is by scheduling an initial consultation with their dentist. During this appointment, they will learn what your child would like to change about their smile, conduct a dental exam, and determine if cosmetic dentistry is the right choice for them.
What Cosmetic Dentistry Services Are Suitable for Children?
As mentioned above, extensive cosmetic services aren’t typically suitable for children. After all, their smile is still growing! Fortunately, there are still ways their dentist can conceal imperfections. One of the most common options is metal-free fillings and dental crowns. These tooth-colored restorations can effectively restore decayed or otherwise damaged teeth, ensuring your child can get the treatment they deserve without calling attention to it. Another popular cosmetic treatment is dental bonding. In addition to a quick turnaround time, this smile-enhancing solution can last for 5+ years with proper care, yields lifelike results, and can address a wide array of dental flaws.
How Your Child Can Preserve Their Results
Cosmetic dentistry can correct everything from minor chips to extensive decay, but it’s up to your child to keep their new and improved smile in tip-top shape. To do so, they should implement the below best practices:
- Brushing their teeth for two full minutes at least twice a day.
- Flossing between any two teeth that touch.
- Visiting their dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.
- Limiting their sugar consumption.
- Quitting unhealthy dental habits, like nail-biting and chewing on pen caps.
- Avoiding dark-colored foods and beverages, like soda and marinara sauce.
As a parent, you want your child to feel confident in themselves. If features of their smile are hindering their self-confidence, then ask their dentist if cosmetic dentistry is an option!
About the Practice
At Tic Tac Tooth Pediatric Dentistry, patients and their families can benefit from the expertise of four talented, highly-trained, compassionate doctors. They know the important role your child’s smile plays in their confidence and overall development, which is why they enjoy providing meticulous checkups, essential restorative services, and smile-enhancing cosmetic dentistry. If you’re interested in learning more about cosmetic dental treatments for children, don’t hesitate to visit their website or give them a call at 630-995-3393.