Many teenagers are naturally hyper-aware of their appearance and how others perceive them. While it is important to teach them the value of treasuring their unique look, there is also nothing wrong with helping your adolescent child boost their confidence through cosmetic dentistry. What are some treatments that your teen might be eligible for? This blog post discusses some popular options.
Teeth Whitening
As a parent, you may notice that your teenager feels self-conscious about the color of their teeth. This is a common concern, especially as they become more aware of their smile in social situations. Professional teeth whitening is a safe and effective option that can help your teen achieve a brighter smile.
Most dental offices offer treatments that use stronger bleaching agents than store-bought products, providing noticeable results in less time. Dentists also take steps to protect gum tissue during the process, making in-office whitening a good choice for adolescents who want quick and reliable outcomes. If your child has healthy teeth and gums, this treatment may be appropriate for them.
Veneers
Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that bond to the front of teeth, changing their color, shape, and overall appearance. This option is popular among teens who have chipped, stained, or irregularly shaped teeth that do not respond well to other treatments. Veneers can create a uniform, natural-looking smile that boosts your child’s confidence.
Dentists typically recommend veneers for older teens whose teeth and jaws have finished developing. It is important for you to discuss the process with your dental provider, since veneer placement involves removing a small amount of tooth enamel. Once placed, veneers require regular dental care and diligent daily maintenance, so your teen should already have a foundation of good oral health habits.
Invisalign
Crooked teeth or bite issues can affect your teen’s self-esteem and oral health. Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment for teenagers who want straighter teeth without traditional braces. This system uses clear aligners that are custom-made for your child’s mouth, making them nearly invisible and comfortable to wear.
Your teen will need to wear the aligners for most of the day (20 – 22 hours) and switch to a new set every few weeks as their teeth move into place. If your child is good at keeping up with their responsibilities and has mild to moderate dental misalignment, this treatment might be a good fit for them.
Other Possible Treatments
Beyond whitening, veneers, and Invisalign, several other cosmetic dentistry procedures might benefit your teen. You can bring them in for a consultation with a qualified dentist, who will offer recommendations based on your teen’s unique goals and circumstances. They will do all they can to design a treatment plan that gives your child a confident grin that lets their lovely personality shine!
Meet the Practice
Meriden Dental Group is proud to serve families in our area. We offer a range of cosmetic treatments for patients of various age groups, including veneers, teeth whitening, and more. To learn more about us and the services available in our practice, get in touch with us at 203-404-6800.