What Cosmetic Dentistry Options Are Appropriate for My Teen?

Being insecure with your smile is not reserved only for adults. Teenagers struggle with self-esteem perhaps more than any other age group.

Your teen comes to you to talk about their teeth and is vulnerable about how much it’s affecting them daily. You want to help, but you aren’t sure if cosmetic dentistry is a viable option before adulthood.

Keep reading to learn about some treatments that are suitable for teenagers and can give them a confidence boost. Once you learn what their options are, you can steer the conversation about treatment with them accordingly.

Porcelain Veneers

Teens can sometimes be good candidates for veneers to correct mild alignment issues or shape imperfections. A good example is addressing a cracked or chipped tooth that your high school athlete might have suffered.

Dental Bonding

This treatment is quite normal among teens and even younger children, as it can help teeth that are chipped or broken. It’s important to repair your child’s broken teeth so they have a healthy, strong foundation of oral health.

Teeth Whitening

If your teen has not already asked for a professional whitening treatment, there’s a good chance they will. It can be okay, but you should ask their dentist first since starting whitening treatment too soon can negatively affect a child’s teeth. Typically, after age 16 should be okay. It’s better to steer them toward professional treatment because if they buy a whitening kit from the store and use it too often it could prove very painful.

Clear Aligners

As you probably recall from your childhood, braces are an option for teens and these days that generally means clear aligners. The important thing for them to know about this teeth-straightening option is that they will need to wear the aligners for about 22 hours each day and brush after they eat every single time. That will likely be a discussion about their discipline to maximize the treatment, as much as anything else. Your teen may be interested in clear braces so they can get results but the other kids at school won’t know they are wearing them.

Some cosmetic dentistry treatments are okay for teens and even children. In cases like fixing broken teeth or straightening teeth, it is detrimental to the child not to act. Before committing to any treatment, cosmetic or otherwise, it’s always a good idea to check in with their dentist for a professional opinion.

About the Practice

At Orange Place Family Dentistry, we have strived to be a family-oriented dental office for the past 30 years. That means catering to patients of all ages and providing a wide variety of dental services that everyone can appreciate. We offer 7 a.m. appointments several days each week in case a before-school appointment is easiest to fit into a child’s schedule. If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry for your child, we can discuss their situation with you to see what course of action makes the most sense. To schedule a consultation, visit our website or call (216) 464-2448.