Have you been wondering, “Why are my child’s teeth so yellow?” Actually, that’s a pretty common concern many parents have. Some parents visit our Meyerland, Houston office asking if their child can get their teeth whitened. The truth is, it’s not the safest choice for your child’s teeth until they reach a certain age. We’ll explain why.
Why You Shouldn’t Consider Teeth Whitening for Your Child
Major dental organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentist (AAPD), do not recommend teeth whitening for kids until all of their permanent teeth have erupted and the enamel of their teeth is fully calcified.
Usually, most kids have all their adult teeth by the time they are 12 or 13. Enamel calcification takes about two years after an adult tooth appears. Putting it simply, your child or teen should wait until all of their permanent teeth have erupted and calcified. It’s best to consult a dental professional to be certain.
Our Meyerland dentist will do a complete exam to recommend the best age for teeth whitening. We want your kid to have a brighter smile, but in a safe, healthy way.
Can My Kid Use Whitening Strips or Toothpaste?
Now you know that professional teeth whitening is not an option until your child is 14 or 15. Then what about other over-the-counter products like strips or gels? The recommendation stays the same.
Although these products have a lower percentage of bleaching agents than those used in professional whitening, they can still be harmful to your child’s newly developing teeth.
Of course, a bigger concern is the risk of misuse. Children or teens may use these products improperly or overuse them without supervision.
Whitening toothpastes can also be risky. We suggest that parents in Meyerland buy non-abrasive toothpastes for their kids instead of harsh whitening toothpastes.
How to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Whiter
Instead of looking for teeth whitening options for your kid that are generally considered unsafe, the best thing you can work on is stain prevention. Here’s how:
Regular brushing
Plaque buildup can make teeth look more yellow. Ask your child to brush their teeth two times a day, preferably with a child-safe fluoride toothpaste.
Avoid staining foods/drinks
Colas, fizzy drinks, and candies with food dyes can quickly discolor your child’s teeth. Many teens also love coffee and tea, which are major contributors to tooth staining. Try limiting the intake of these items as much as possible.
Maintain routine dental visits
Our dentist suggests thorough checkups and cleanings for kids every 6 months. They can help keep your little one’s smile healthy and bright!
To Sum It Up
Most dental experts don’t recommend teeth whitening for kids until they are 14 or 15. Whitening before this age can be quite risky for their teeth and gums. If you have any questions about your child’s teeth, reach out to us at Safari Family Dental and Orthodontics today. Call our Meyerland office at (346) 266-0886.