Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure because it allows you to restore your teeth to their original whiteness and improve your smile, and some parents are wondering if there is such a thing as teeth whitening for kids. Due to the increase in popularity, teeth whitening products are available at most stores, allowing people to whiten their teeth in the comfort of their home.
Is teeth whitening for kids safe?
When it comes to teeth whitening for kids, some parents are apprehensive about using teeth whitening products on their children because they do not know if it is safe.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAPD), you should not bleach your child’s teeth until all of their baby teeth have fallen out and their permanent teeth have come in.
One of the reasons pediatric dentists suggest waiting on teeth whitening for kids is because the concentration of hydrogen peroxide used in most teeth whitening strips can lead to sensitivity, especially in kids.
Another reason they suggest waiting is because baby teeth are whiter than the permanent teeth and do not require any further whitening. When their permanent teeth come in, they can turn yellow due to consumption of soda and candy, but they are strong enough to be whitened.
Instead of whitening their child's teeth when they are young, parents should wait until the child is at least 14 before using teeth whitening products, in order to make sure the pulp in their teeth is fully formed. Teeth whitening for kids at an early age increases their likelihood of having tooth sensitivity and makes them more prone to cavities and soreness.
Over-the-counter teeth whitening vs. dental office teeth whitening
The AAPD suggests that you should take your child to a dentist to get their teeth whitened for the first time because over-the-counter teeth whitening products are still relatively new and have not been researched enough to determine if they are harmful to children.
When it comes to teeth whitening for kids, you should consult with your dentist before you begin the process to get an expert opinion. It is also recommended that you wait until the child has finished all orthodontic treatments because orthodontic devices like braces, which are used to straighten the teeth, can stain the teeth during treatment, and your dentist will have to whiten your child’s teeth anyway after removing the device.
If your dentist decides that it is okay to whiten your child’s teeth with at-home treatment, make sure you supervise your child when they are applying the whitening agent, to prevent them from leaving the strip on their teeth for too long and/or swallowing it, which is quite common.
Conclusion
Teeth whitening improves the appearance of your teeth and improves your smile. However, dentists recommend waiting until children are at least 14 years old before considering teeth whitening for kids. If you want to learn more about whitening your child's teeth, talk to your dentist and have them examine your child's teeth to determine if they can be whitened.
Request an appointment here: https://www.canyonridgepediatricdentistry.com or call Canyon Ridge Pediatric Dentistry at (303) 841-7900 for an appointment in our Parker office.
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FAQs
Conclusion. Teeth whitening improves the appearance of your teeth and improves your smile. However, dentists recommend waiting until children are at least 14 years old before considering teeth whitening for kids.
Can you safely whiten kids teeth? ›
Most children lose all of their baby teeth and have all their adult teeth by the time they are 12 or 13 years old, and enamel calcification takes about two more years. Therefore, children should not bleach their teeth until about 14 or 15 years old.
Are kids allowed to use teeth whitening? ›
No teeth whitening product should be used before tooth pulp is fully formed and all the permanent teeth have completely erupted, which typically occurs by age 12 or 13. Enamel calcification then takes approximately 2 more years.
Can kids use teeth whitening strips? ›
1. Stay away from strips. As was mentioned earlier, whitening strips are not recommended when it comes to whitening a child's teeth. There is not enough data to evaluate how the bleaching agents in them affect developing enamel, and kids are more likely to misuse them.
At what age can you get your teeth whitened? ›
If you're younger than 18, you can't have some forms of tooth whitening. And if you still have your baby teeth, you might need to skip any type of whitening product altogether. No upper age limit applies to tooth whitening products.
Can you fix kids yellow teeth? ›
You can remove your child's tooth discolouration by promoting good oral hygiene practices. This includes brushing and flossing their teeth at least two times a day, as well as avoiding food or drink that are sugary or acidic. You can also make a natural solution of lemon juice and baking soda.
Is it safe for kids to use teeth whitening toothpaste? ›
Most dentists agree that regular toothpaste with whitening ingredients are okay for children to use, but only in small (pea-sized) amounts and when they learn to brush properly, i.e. not too hard!
What is the minimum age to use Crest White Strips? ›
Not intended for use in children under the age of 12. Do not swallow plastic strip. Crest 3D White Whitestrips is not a substitute for regular dental care.
Does baking soda whiten teeth? ›
Baking soda can be used with some water to remove the stains on the surface of the teeth. It can also be used with hydrogen peroxide to enhance its whitening effects. Baking soda can be used by individuals with regular toothpastes too. It is also used commercially in some teeth whitening products and toothpastes.
How to get whiter teeth naturally? ›
Seven Ways to Naturally Whiten Teeth
- Eat Strawberries. One of the simplest ways to naturally whiten your teeth is just by eating strawberries. ...
- Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables. ...
- Brush After You Eat or Drink. ...
- Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar. ...
- Apply Coconut Oil. ...
- Brush Your Tongue. ...
- Use Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide.
Custom-fitted trays and in-office treatments are the safest and most effective ways to whiten teeth. ADA-approved over-the-counter toothpastes, gels, and strips are more affordable and convenient options.
Can yellow teeth become white? ›
Yellow teeth can regain whiteness through various methods, including good oral hygiene, professional dental cleanings, and teeth-whitening treatments. Stains from coffee, tea, or tobacco can be removed with adequate oral care, while professional procedures like bleaching or laser treatments offer quicker results.
How to whiten teeth in 2 minutes? ›
Baking-powder eliminates stains on the surface of your teeth and lemon juice as we already said has multiple components that lighten teeth. Just mix a teaspoon of baking powder and a teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and brush your teeth with the paste this mixture will work wonders in just two minutes.
How can I clean my kids yellow teeth at home? ›
Lemon and baking soda can be mixed to make a paste that can help your child's teeth get whiter. Your child will use the paste to brush their teeth. Afterward, your child should let the paste sit on their teeth for at least two minutes before they rinse. The baking soda and lemon mix should only be used once a week.
Is charcoal teeth whitening safe for kids? ›
Charcoal toothpaste is not advised for children, teens or adults. Charcoal is abrasive, and over time, it can wear down your enamel. While charcoal toothpaste may appear to remove surface stains in the short run, it can cause your teeth to yellow over time and become more sensitive as it damages your enamel.
Is it safe to use baking soda on kids' teeth? ›
It is safe to brush your toddler's teeth with a very small amount of baking soda, but it should not be their only means of brushing their teeth. It would always be a good decision to reach out to a reputable pediatric dentist if you have any questions or concerns about your child's oral health.
Can a grey baby tooth turn white again? ›
A toddler's grey teeth can turn white in certain situations after following the appropriate treatment plans and aftercare. The results may vary depending on the root cause and the extent of the discoloration.
