Advanced Cosmetic and General Dentistry Blog

Studio City, Valley Village, Burbank, North Hollywood

Friday, June 19, 2009

Ideal Age to Start Whitening Teeth

Tooth whitening is a popular dental procedure today. Having a brilliant white smile helps one look younger, more healthy and more attractive, so it is no wonder tooth whitening is highly sought-after, from over-the-counter products to in-office laser whitening.

Adults of all ages enjoy the benefits of tooth whitening, but what is the ideal age to begin whitening teeth? A child’s deciduous teeth, or baby teeth, are usually quite white. As the child grows, the teeth become darker because of changes in tooth mineral structure. Adult habits such as drinking wine or coffee, smoking or chewing tobacco cause darker staining.

During the sensitive developmental stages from baby teeth to permanent adult teeth, tooth whitening is not advised. Under the age of 16, the pulp chamber containing the tooth’s nerve is enlarged. Tooth whitening can cause too much sensitivity in a child’s teeth and gum irritation is another potential side effect of teeth whitening. The minimum age to begin tooth whitening is 16 years of age, when the teeth have matured.

Individuals who already have sensitive teeth and gums prior to tooth whitening, or any individual who may be allergic to peroxide, the whitening agent used in tooth whitening, should consult with a qualified cosmetic dentist like Dr. Jamie Sands or Dr. Jason Sands of Smiles By Sands in Studio City, California.

If you would like to know more about tooth whitening please contact our cosmetic dentistry office.

posted by Evan Langsted at 3:33 PM

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