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Keep in mind that almost always
are the permanent teeth not as white as the primary teeth. This
is accentuated at this age when adult teeth are erupting next to baby
teeth. The perm teeth are a "normal" color, and will not be as white as
"baby teeth". Children's adult teeth are usually more "yellow"
and "big" than baby teeth, which is normal. Remember that kids
will grow into their teeth both in size and color.
Bleaching using the light
systems should be limited to age 18 and older due to the issue of pulpal damage.
They did some experimenting on children as low as 16 and
found
sensitivity was too significant so it is not suggested for children
under the age of 18.
If you want to bleach a child teeth then use trays with the lowest
concentration and use them longer (more days not more hours per day)
under your dentist supervision. The bleaching process is
a general project not a specific one (bleach will affect color
throughout the area). Hence the reason why tray formation can be as
general as it is*
Another consideration is the
fact that the teeth are not fully erupted.
As the child gets older, the gingival margin will move apically exposing
enamel that did not come in contact with the whitening agent. Additional
whitening will be needed on a regular basis. This is not a problem but
parents need to be advised that this will occur.
Here are some alternative actions that can help your
child :
 | Wear dark turtlenecks
to make their teeth "look" whiter. |
| Try Colgate Simply White. It works,
esp. for
youngsters. Oralcare.com |
Updates
Tooth Whitening in Children and
Adolescents
The purpose of this paper was to summarize the findingsof a
literature review on the use of peroxide-based tooth-whitening agents in
children and adolescents. Safety considerations, including localized
adverse effects and toxicological concerns, are described.
Oral findings include: (1) 1 in every 2 to 3 patients may experience
tooth sensitivity and/or gingival irritation after bleaching treatment,
which may be more traumatic an experience for children than adults;
(2) depending on dose, duration, frequency, and route, studies indicate
excessive exposure to peroxide can be potentially harmful; (3) degree
of potential toxicity and harmful outcomes increases in those who
overuse whiteners — a concern in teenagers; (4) careful case
selection using stringent criteria is suggested for primary teeth
whitening; (5) whitening in healthy adolescents is a case-by-case
determination that must include the weighing of risks (oral health and
age) vs benefits (improved esthetic perception).
It is hoped that the present review will lead to a better understanding
of the health implications of tooth whitening in children and
adolescents, and offer guidance for treatment that provides satisfactory
outcomes externally (enamel and gingiva) and internally (endodontic
tissues and systemic health).
(Pediatr Dent. 2005; 27:362-368)Sean S. Lee, Wu Zhang, D. Harvey Lee,
Yiming LiTooth Whitening in Children and Adolescents: A Literature
Review
Pediatr Dent. 2005; 27:362-368
IDF 10/07/04
Is Teeth Whitening Addictive?
 WebMD.com
raises the question of “whitening addiction,” citing those who have a
narcissistic compulsion to maintain their youth by overuse of tooth
whitening products, both OTC and professional. Signs of whitening abuse
include people who seek to get their teeth to a "Clorox white” shade
until their teeth are almost transparent, yet do not seem to realize
their teeth are already white. It is unlikely that damage to the surface
of the tooth will be caused before the sensitivity occurs. He
cautions against bleaching for people under age 18 as there is greater
opportunity for hypersensitivity. Dentists need to partner with
patients to set realistic expectations and avoid overuse of whitening
products.
*Dr. Dave Light
February, 2008
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