Everyone wants that dazzling bright smile nowadays, even our teens. If you are wondering if teens can get their teeth whitened in Hamden and want to know more about this procedure, you’ve come to the right place! We’ll break it down for you to easily understand what teeth whitening for teens is, what is best for your teen, and what to expect.
Teeth whitening is more common than you think; it’s the most requested dental procedure done every year. Many public figures and celebrities have their teeth whitened for a more professional look. There are plenty of reputable dental health care centers in Hamden that can provide you with this procedure and we are one of them! Just give us a call (203) 408-2248 for any inquiries or appointments.
What is the right age to start teeth whitening?
Most dentists recommended that teeth whitening should only be done until all adult teeth are present, and there are no longer any baby teeth in your teenager’s mouth. This is usually no earlier than the ages 14-16.
For teens under the age of 14-16, bleaching teeth isn’t recommended because it can cause tooth sensitivity. However, teeth whitening is to be considered on an individual basis, so if your teenager already has all of their adult teeth by 13, they may be ready for whitening products. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, which method is the best and safest when it comes to whitening teeth?
Recommended procedures
When it comes to teeth whitening, we usually do not recommend buying your own products for an ‘at home teeth whitening’ as their level hydrogen peroxide content is not always the amount endorsed by the Health Department. We encourage you to visit a local dentist for a safer procedure. A professional whitening should be done in a dentist’s office, and the procedure takes about an hour.
Hydrogen peroxide procedure
Hydrogen peroxide procedure is the application of a tooth whitening gel containing between 25% to 40% hydrogen peroxide. Then a special heating lamp is aimed at the teeth for three 20-minute intervals, with reapplication of the gel between intervals. During the procedure, a protective barrier is used to keep the lips, gums, and tongue away from the whitening gel so it stays in place on your teeth. With the availability of thicker hydrogen peroxide gels and desensitizers such as fluoride and potassium nitrate, gum and tooth sensitivity is no longer a major issue for patients opting for in-office treatments. Results can be seen after a single treatment that may require as little as an hour.
Hydrogen peroxide + Laser Procedure
At some in-office treatment, dentists may use a laser during the procedure. It is believed to accelerate or activate the whitening process. During the laser, the eyes and gums are fully protected to ensure safety. The differences are immediate without complications. Your dentist may also suggest whitening trays molded for your teen so they can follow-up at home with bleaching solutions for best results.
Custom Dental Trays and Gel
Another option for your teen is custom dental trays with a gel. Custom made dental trays are molded from impressions taken in your dentists’ office, and a professional-strength whitening gel will help to whiten your teen’s smile over two weeks. Trays usually have just 7% peroxide. Custom whitening trays are great for your teen to ensure the treatment is personalized and yield great results.
What price range to expect?
At average teeth whitening treatment at a dentist’s office can cost about $500 and can go up to $1,000 or more. Total price all depends on what product and preferred procedure is used and the dentist fee. For custom made trays prices range from $300 to $400.
After care and when to get a redone.
Teeth whitening can last up to 6 months to 3 years. We recommend the following tips to help your teen take care of their teeth after a teeth whitening procedure:
- Brush your teeth last thing at night and at least one other time during the day, with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Avoid Hot and Cold Meals (right after procedure)
- Cut down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks.
- Avoid Colored foods (right after procedure)
- Avoid Acidic Foods (right after procedure)
- Visit your dental team regularly, as often as they recommend.
If done correctly, teeth whitening is very safe for patients of any age who have all of their adult teeth in healthy condition. If your teen has thin enamel, or suffers from a tooth infection, or advanced decay, teeth whitening products may not be the best option. Consult with your dentist to see if teeth whitening is right for your teenager.