Conservative Teen smile enhancements-Dr. Fred Peck

Many teenage children have discolorations in their front teeth and are embarrassed to smile. This can lead to a lifetime of self esteem issues for these kids. Today, a combination of tooth whitening, enamel re-mineralization products and enamel surface sealants can take a yellow, discolored tooth and make it very attractive. The first step is to whiten the tooth as much as possible without damaging the tooth. Whitening (or bleaching as it is also know as) is very safe when controlled and supervised by your dentist. In office whitening along with a home regimen is a good start. The teeth that have bright white spots and other discoloration will then blend in better. The next step is a process to remove the superficial layer of the discoloration. This is done over a period of several weeks, with visits that are spaced 1-2 weeks apart. When this is complete the final process allows the outer layer of the enamel of the front teeth to be sealed and blend in color with the adjacent tooth structure. Ask your dentist about these conservative procedures. The last thing you want to allow is to have over treatment of your child's teeth, for they will have to deal with the consequences for a lifetime.