Between sports injuries, accidents, and developmental issues, it is not unusual for kids to have chipped or misshapen teeth. And though they may not cause any pain or interfere with daily life, they can hurt one’s self-esteem and confidence. In some cases, they may even raise concerns about proper oral function.
Thankfully, there are cosmetic options that will restore both the appearance and functionality of chipped or misshapen teeth in kids. Let’s explore.
The Need for Cosmetic Dentistry
The front teeth are often the first to come in and the most at risk for trauma. Kids are active and are prone to getting injured while playing sports, as well as with falling or even biting down on something hard. Cosmetic dentistry allows these teeth to be rejuvenated in appearance using age-appropriate treatments.
Genetics plays a huge role in oral health, and this can lead to the eruption of one or more misshapen teeth. Not only can this lower a child’s level of confidence, but it can also cause impaired speech and bite misalignment, as well as lead to future dental issues. In other words, it is important to understand that these imperfections are not necessarily all cosmetic-based—they can significantly impact the child in many different ways.
Cosmetic Dental Treatments for Kids
So, just what does cosmetic dentistry for children look like? Surprisingly, many of the treatments available for adults also work well for younger patients, too, especially pre-teens and teens.
When it comes to teeth that are chipped or misshapen, below are two of the most commonly used methods for kids.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a great, non-invasive way to fix teeth. A tooth-colored composite material is used to restore the tooth by filling it in and reshaping it as necessary. A small amount of bonding is applied and then sculpted carefully. This allows it to look like it blends beautifully and naturally with the teeth around it.
A curing light is used to harden the material, setting it in place for years to come.
Dental Crowns
If the damage is more severe or impacts the back teeth, pediatric dental crowns can be an option. They are custom-made, restoring appearance and function to the tooth. Crowns, occasionally referred to as caps, are placed over the damaged tooth to give its structural integrity a boost.
Dental crowns can be made with different types of material, such as stainless steel and composite resin. If needed, your dentist will discuss your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cosmetic dentistry safe for kids?
Absolutely. Pediatric cosmetic dentistry places your child’s safety and comfort as the primary focus. Some of these treatments are even done without the need for numbing from the local anesthetic. And, of course, the materials are approved for use in pediatric patients.
Does insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
Whether or not a cosmetic procedure is covered will depend on your specific policy. Often, treatments that are needed to restore functionality due to trauma are covered, at least in part. Those that are purely for cosmetic reasons are often not.
Restoring Kids’ Smiles in Orange County
At Orange County Pediatric Dentistry, we offer cosmetic solutions that are safe, effective, and designed with kids in mind. If you are ready to restore your child’s smile, contact us today at 845-928-2206 to schedule an appointment.