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Braces and Beyond: 6 Popular Treatments in Cosmetic Dentistry for Children
When it comes to children, you are always better off addressing any dental issues at an early age for long-term oral health. This is where cosmetic dental procedures like braces come in handy. But, did you know that braces aren’t the only cosmetic dentistry procedure out there?
In fact, cosmetic dentistry for children has significantly evolved in the past decade and there are now a range of cosmetic treatment options beyond traditional braces. Here are the best treatments in cosmetic dentistry tailored for children:
Traditional Braces
Well, braces are more or less synonymous with cosmetic dentistry. They are the most popular and highly-adopted orthodontic treatments for children with misaligned teeth, jaw positions, or improper bites. These braces are made of metal brackets and wires and help to gradually shift your teeth into their correct positions.
There have even been advancements in orthodontics that have led to more comfortable, sleeker braces that lessen discomfort and shorten treatment times. There are also colorful bands and customization options that empower children to express themselves during their orthodontic journey.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are another common choice in pediatric cosmetic dentistry due to their discreteness and effectiveness. They are transparent, removable trays that gently shift misaligned teeth into proper alignment. It is growing in popularity among children due to its nearly invisible appearance, comfort, and ease of maintenance.
They actually offer more aesthetic alternatives to traditional braces.
They allow kids to maintain their oral hygiene easily by removing them for meals and brushing. The beauty with this minimally invasive treatment often requires fewer office visits, making it convenient for busy families.
In fact, this is yet one of the reasons why clear aligners have gained popularity as an appealing choice for correcting dental misalignments in children giving them a confident and healthy smile.
Dental Veneers
Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surface of teeth to correct various imperfections, such as discoloration, gaps, or misalignment. While more commonly associated with adults, some teenagers and older children might benefit from veneers to achieve an aesthetically pleasing smile.
However, this procedure typically requires careful consideration and consultation with a dentist due to the irreversible nature of enamel removal.
You can find an experienced family doctor to conveniently and effectively carry out this dental cosmetic procedure. You can simply search for a family dentist near me to find an experienced and qualified expert for the procedure.
Getting a good family dentist near you also makes it easy to receive regular check-ups and necessary treatments to maintain good oral health.
Dental Bonding
If your child has chipped, discolored, or irregularly shaped teeth, then dental bonding can be an ideal solution. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the affected tooth, sculpting it to improve its appearance, and then bonding it in place. Dental bonding is also a minimally invasive treatment that can swiftly enhance a child’s smile.
The procedure is relatively quick, often completed in a single visit, making it more comfortable for children. The resin is molded and hardened using a special light, seamlessly blending with the natural teeth.
It thus preserves the original tooth structure, making it an ideal choice for younger patients seeking aesthetic improvements to boost their confidence with a natural-looking smile.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are commonly used in pediatric dentistry for both cosmetic and functional purposes. These crowns, typically made of stainless steel or tooth-colored materials like zirconia, cover a damaged or decayed tooth entirely. They can effectively restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance, concealing discoloration, fractures, or extensive cavities.
Besides their cosmetic benefits, crowns protect weakened teeth from further decay or breakage, maintaining proper alignment and enabling normal chewing. Their durable nature ensures long-lasting results, crucial for active children.
Generally speaking, dental crowns serve as an essential cosmetic dentistry solution for kids, ensuring both aesthetic improvement and the restoration of dental health.
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening treatments can effectively brighten a child’s smile by removing stains and discoloration caused by certain foods, beverages, or poor oral hygiene.
While over-the-counter whitening products are available, professional whitening procedures performed under a dentist’s supervision are safer and more effective, ensuring minimal risk to a child’s developing teeth and gums.
Wrapping up
In conclusion, advancements in cosmetic dentistry mean that there are now many options available for improving children’s smiles. From traditional braces to several other innovative solutions, these treatments offer diverse pathways to achieve a confident and healthy smile for children. While these treatments aim to enhance a child’s smile, the primary goal of cosmetic dentistry remains the overall health and functionality of their teeth and gums. You can consult with a family dentist near you who can help identify the most appropriate treatment plan for your child.
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