The best way to keep teeth healthy and white is by brushing and flossing daily, combined with a healthy diet. But what about teeth whitening? This dental option has grown in popularity over the years, but is it safe for kids? Let’s explore.
What causes teeth discoloration?
When teeth change color, it is typically due to food and drink stains, age, and tobacco use, which are issues that impact adults rather than children. But teeth can darken in children due to other issues, like tooth decay or trauma. For instance, if a tooth is injured during sports or an accident, a tooth will react by producing more dentin, the hard living connective tissue below the enamel layer. This layer is darker than enamel, which is what dulls the white.
Another cause of teeth discoloration in children or adults is medication. When developing teeth are exposed to tetracycline or doxycycline in antibiotics, antihistamines, antipsychotics, or high blood pressure medications, they may darken or discolor. Chemotherapy can also discolor teeth.
How does teeth whitening work?
Teeth whitening is removing or loosening stains on the surface of teeth. Most over the counter products use peroxide-based ingredients to carry this out. Professional treatments at the dentist or other health facility may include laser removal or bleach that is safe for teeth and human consumption. Typically, teeth whitening is a process, requiring multiple applications to achieve noticeably whiter teeth.
Is teeth whitening safe for kids?
The short answer is you should consult your dentist before considering teeth whitening for children. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends waiting until a child is at least 15 years old and has all their permanent teeth. Pediatric Safety, an organization specializing in children’s health and safety, recommends waiting until age 18 before considering teeth whitening.
The risks of teeth whitening for kids
Whitening younger children's teeth, even with at-home teeth whitening products, can damage developing enamel and make teeth more sensitive, making it more difficult to eat, drink, brush, or speak.
Teeth whitening for children’s teeth can also cause further variations in tooth color, nerve or gum damage, and injury to fillings or crowns. It is important to note that teeth whitening does not work on crowns, fillings, or veneers.
Natural teeth whitening methods safe for kids
There are safe, natural options to lighten teeth. But as with anything concerning oral health care for kids, check with your dentist first before trying anything new.
Brush teeth with baking soda. Baking soda is in most commercial toothpastes because of its natural whitening properties. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of water and brush teeth with it twice per week.
Brush with orange or lemon peel powder. The peels of oranges and lemons contain citric acid that can help remove the yellow stains on your kids’ teeth enamel. Dip their toothbrush in water, then orange or lemon peel powder, and brush gently for 2 minutes. Rinse with water.
The bottom line
Make an appointment with your dentist to examine any discolored teeth, especially a tooth that is injured and turned dark or has white spots, to discuss if an in-office whitening option or at-home product is worth considering.
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