Have you seen changes in the color of your child’s teeth? Do you feel concerned about it? There’s reason to be. When it comes to tooth discoloration, you should be aware that both baby teeth and permanent teeth can be affected. It could be the result of food, drinks, or even an accident. All in all, a child with discoloration can be psychologically affected. It’s important to know the facts and what you can do to help.
It’s More than Just Teeth
No one wishes to have yellow or brownish teeth. That’s because you can’t hide the mouth. So, how your child’s teeth look can affect his or her esteem.
Why is there a connection between self-confidence and teeth?
- First impressions matter the most. Most of the time, people always notice your teeth first. So, it is only natural to connect your self-confidence with the appearance of your teeth.
- Crooked teeth or malocclusion, missing tooth, yellowish or discoloured teeth or bad breath are some of the situations which might leave you with lowered confidence, anxiety and depression…
- The aesthetics of one’s teeth also affect their willingness to be part of social gatherings. If someone doesn’t feel confident about their appearance, it is hard for them to socialize and meet new people. A sense of aloofness can also develop. Read more at Lavaca Dental
Children approaching adolescence and teenage are most vulnerable. If you notice any anti-social behavior in your child, tooth discoloration could be the reason.
Causes of Tooth Discoloration
There are several reasons behind a change in the color of your child’s teeth. So, don’t get all worked up about it. Here are some of them:
Poor Brushing Habits
The most common explanation for tooth discoloration in kids is improper brushing. Kids don’t naturally understand just how important it is to brush their teeth twice a day, so it can be really easy for them to just not do it…
An Accident or Trauma
A single tooth that seems to suddenly appear darker in color can indicate a sign of tooth trauma. Perhaps your child took a spill while playing outside, or bonked her mouth on a hard surface, and you didn’t think much of it because she seemed perfectly fine. Yet a day or two later her tooth starts to look gray or dull…
Too Much Fluoride
Fluoride is something that many dentists use on both baby teeth and adult teeth to help strengthen enamel and protect against decay… However, there is such a thing as too much fluoride, and one of the most common signs of it are small white streaks or spots on the teeth known as fluorosis. Read more at Growing Great Grins
Diet and sickness are also other causes of discoloration. Actually, the use of an antibiotic in pregnant moms could cause the baby’s teeth to turn blue-grey or yellow-brown.
Teeth Whitening For Children
The next thing you may want to find out is how you can whiten your child’s teeth. Well, there are DIY remedies, but it’s best to go for professional treatment.
Can my kid professionally whiten their teeth?
Yes, professional teeth whitening is a great alternative to whitening toothpaste (for adults and children!).
Dental bleaching is a form of cosmetic dentistry that whitens teeth through the controlled application of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide.
While you can get tooth whitening products at a store or pharmacy, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry… This text opens a new tab to the organization’s website… advises parents to consult a pediatric dentist before bleaching their child’s teeth. Read more at Dentistry Just For Kids
The last thing you’d want is any other thing going wrong with your child’s teeth. So, your safest bet is to consult your pediatric dentist.
At Dague Dental Solutions, we are passionate about ensuring children have healthy and strong teeth. If you have any questions about teeth whitening for your child, we’re here for you. Call our office at (563) 386-9770 or reach us through the contact form on our website. We look forward to assisting you and your family.