Should Your Child Get Cosmetic Dentistry?

Some cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as teeth whitening and dentures, are becoming more common for children. While it's more common to wait until adulthood when the teeth have had a chance to fully grow in, some cosmetic procedures are best done right away. Here are some questions to ask to determine if your child should get cosmetic dentistry. 

Will the Problem Go Away?

Cosmetic dentistry can be considered as an option if the problem isn't responding to other treatments and isn't going to go away on its own. Tooth stains can be a good example. Although they may sometimes be treated by better dental hygiene or a healthier diet, they can sometimes be caused by factors that are beyond your control. In this case, gentle teeth whitening and micro abrasion can help to remove the stains. 

Will the Problem Get Worse if Left Untreated?

Another reason to seek cosmetic dentistry solutions for a growing child is when the problem will continue to get worse if it's not fixed right away. For instance, if your child is missing a tooth and it's not going to grow back in, then you can consider getting a partial denture or another tooth replacement option. When left untreated, this problem could cause your child's other teeth to grow in crooked since they have too much room. 

Is the Problem Related to a Trauma?

One common time that parents seek out cosmetic dentistry solutions for their children is when a trauma occurs, such as a fall or a sports injury. Problems like broken or chipped teeth can be a source of embarrassment for children, and they may even ask to have these problems corrected on their own. There are a few different solutions for this type of problem, including porcelain tooth veneers. If the tooth is almost completely broken, a permanent implant can be put in place to fill the tooth gap and become an integrated part of the jawbone. 

Deciding to get cosmetic dentistry services for your child depends on a lot of factors, as you can see. One thing that you can do to make the decision easier is to seek the opinion of your general dentist. Many dentists perform cosmetic services as well as general preventative services, so finding a well-rounded practitioner may be helpful for your family. This way, you can receive integrated care that encompasses all of your dental needs. Dental offices like Dansville Family Dental Care can help you care for your child's teeth.