Does Your Child Need/Want Dental Veneers?

One of the benefits of dental veneers is that they are a relatively quick and easy way to improve the appearance of teeth. Another benefit is that they can last for many years with proper care. However, are dental veneers an appropriate treatment option for children?

Dental veneers are applied to the front surface of teeth to improve the appearance of teeth that are stained, chipped, crooked, or that have gaps between them. Here is what you need to know about the pros and cons of these cosmetic options for children.

Dental Veneers and Children

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether or not dental veneers are appropriate for children. Some factors that will influence the decision include the child’s age, the severity of the dental problem, and the child’s willingness to cooperate with treatment.

Generally speaking, dental veneers are not recommended for children who are younger than 8 years old. This is because the teeth are still growing and changing at this age, and it is not yet known how veneers will affect the growth and development of the teeth.

When it May Be Considered

There may be occasions when dental veneers are recommended for children who are younger than 8 years old. For example, if a child has a significant amount of tooth decay that needs to be repaired, veneers may be the best option. In this situation, the veneers will be used to protect the teeth from further damage and to improve the appearance of the smile.

Another factor that should be considered is whether or not the child is willing to cooperate with treatment. If the child is reluctant to have dental work done, veneers may not be the best option.

How They Work

Veneers are made of a thin layer of porcelain that is bonded to the front surface of teeth. This layer is about half the thickness of a human hair. The porcelain is very strong and can withstand the everyday wear and tear of biting and chewing.

The dentist will first prepare the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel. This is necessary so that the veneers will fit properly and look natural. The veneers are then made to match the color of the surrounding teeth.

Once they are ready, the veneers are bonded to the teeth using a special dental adhesive. The bonding process takes only a few minutes and is relatively painless.

The Advantages of Dental Veneers

There are many advantages to dental veneers, such as they:

– Are a quick and easy way to improve the appearance of teeth.

– Can last for many years with proper care.

– Are a relatively affordable option compared to other cosmetic treatments.

– Do not require any surgery.

The Disadvantages of Dental Veneers

There are a few disadvantages to dental veneers, including that they:

– Require a small amount of enamel to be removed from the teeth.

– Shouldn’t be recommended for children who are younger than 8 years old.

– Are not as strong as natural teeth and may chip or break if they are not properly cared for.

– Can be stained and may need to be replaced if they are not cleaned regularly.

– Are a cosmetic treatment and do not address any dental problems that may exist.

The Bottom Line

Dental veneers are a popular and effective way to improve the appearance of teeth. They are a relatively quick and easy procedure, and they can last for many years with proper care. If you think your child needs dental veneers, the first step is bringing them in for a comprehensive dental exam. The dentist will be able to assess the child’s teeth and determine if veneers are the best option.

Make an Appointment with Li’L Sunshine Smiles

If Dr. Botero finds high levels of decay or gum damage in your child’s mouth, she may recommend a few different treatment options to help safeguard your child’s teeth from cavities and further damage. Our team will help you identify trouble spots in your child’s mouth and give you tips for improving the oral care in that region. As we work together, we can help restore your child’s optimal oral wellness. Make an appointment with us today!