Facebook, Instagram, Spoutible, and other social media platforms have completely changed the way teens—and society in general—think about their smiles. No longer are they simply part of your intimate image, but now they can be part of your brand. The demographics for cosmetic dentistry are slowly changing, but is that a good thing?
Continue reading to learn more about cosmetic dentistry treatments and whether they’re right for your teen.
Teeth Whitening Treatments
Teeth whitening is one of the simplest and fastest treatments available. One in-house treatment or take-home kit from your dentist can erase years of staining from your teeth.
For teens, especially those who may overindulge in take-out coffee, it could offer an instant confidence boost. The active ingredient in most teeth whitening treatments is hydrogen peroxide which penetrates the enamel of your teeth to lift and dissolve stains.
While this treatment may be fine for teens over the age of 16, you should get your dentist’s opinion. It’s best to wait for their teeth to mature before whitening.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding
If your teen has suffered an impact-related injury to their teeth from slipping, an auto accident, or sports, cosmetic dental bonding can help. Depending on the severity of the damage to the teeth in question, dental bonding can restore and reshape chips, cracks, and breaks.
A bit of dental-grade resin is applied to the tooth, shaped, and set with a blue curing light. Once this is done, the restoration will blend seamlessly into your teen’s mouth, recomposing their smile and saving their tooth.
Veneers
Considered the “Cadilac” of restorative treatments, veneers are a one-stop shop for reshaping and reconstituting a smile. Teens who have severe confidence issues because of their teeth, or who have a more severe deformation in their mouths due to injury may want this treatment.
Veneers are shells made of porcelain that fit over existing teeth, changing their shape, size, and their alignment to an extent. If your teen needs multiple types of treatments to get their smile back, veneers make a convenient alternative.
However, it would be best to discuss options with your child and discuss their responsibilities after treatment. Veneers are a large investment of time and money, so you’ll need to ensure they’ll take care of their oral health after the procedure.
Social media has made your image synonymous with your self-worth. Teens are highly susceptible to this pressure and may want some cosmetic dental treatments to help them reach TikTok stardom.
While this may not be a goal you align with, you may want to give them the confidence they desire. Talk to your dentist to see what treatments may benefit your teen for their self-esteem and oral health.
About the Practice
At Land, Walker, Moosavi and Moosavi Family Dentistry, the team takes pride in the relationships they form with their patients. Using the latest dental technology and techniques, their team of highly skilled and professional dentists is ready to serve you and your family. To schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation, call (856) 235-0449 or visit the website to learn more about other services they offer.