Raising a teenager may not be the easiest task in the world. The attitude, hormones, social circles, extracurricular activities, and constant reminders that “it’s just not fair” can make any parent go a bit crazy. But the pressures these adolescents experience nowadays are drastically different than those that occurred 20 or 30 years ago. So, when your child comes to you complaining about their teeth, you may ask, “Can my teenager receive cosmetic dentistry?” To find out the answer, keep reading.
Cosmetic Dentistry for Teens: Is It a Good Idea?
Your teenager may be feeling inadequate because of their smile. The 24/7 access to social media and pressure to “look beautiful” or “make an impression” can be overwhelming for young people these days.
This is one of the main reasons so many are looking for solutions that will enhance their appearance and improve their smile, specifically, cosmetic dentistry.
To know whether it is a good idea to pursue this type of care for your teenager, it’s important that you schedule an appointment with their dentist first. This evaluation and discussion will allow a trusted professional to determine whether one or more services should be pursued.
Which Cosmetic Services Are Safe/Not Safe?
Before your teen’s dentist even begins to discuss the types of cosmetic dental treatments that are available, they will first want to know the problem areas that your teen wants to address. This will help to determine whether this type of dentistry is even appropriate for their needs.
If so, they may be recommended for:
- Teeth whitening to eliminate stains or discoloration
- Cosmetic bonding to conceal minor imperfections such as chips, small cracks, stains, or minor gaps
- Invisalign to address crooked, gapped, or misaligned teeth
- Metal-free dental restorations to protect damaged or decayed teeth
Do not be surprised, however, if their dentist does not recommend the following options:
- Veneers, as this requires the removal of a small portion of tooth enamel and is a permanent form of cosmetic dentistry that must be maintained for a lifetime
- Dental implants, as these are permanent prosthetics that may not be suitable for anyone under the age of 18 because the jawbone and facial structure are not finished developing
The important thing to remember is that cosmetic dentistry can be a safe and viable solution for your teenager. Because of its ability to improve appearances by concealing imperfections, you will find that they feel more comfortable when surrounded by peers, making high school just a little bit easier.
About the Author
Dr. L. Blaine Kennington is an experienced cosmetic dentist who enjoys helping patients achieve the smiles they deserve. When a patient arrives unhappy with their smile, he and our team can work to build a treatment plan that eliminates imperfections and creates flawless, beautiful smiles. If you or your teenager want to feel more confident, contact our office at (360) 703-9092.