Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 3 minutes
If you have noticed your child’s teeth looking more yellow or discolored than usual, you might be wondering if teeth whitening is an option.
Before you pick up a whitening kit or consider in-office treatments, here is what you need to know about teeth whitening for kids, why discoloration happens, and what options make sense based on age and oral health.
We offer restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedures for the whole family at our offices in Denver, Aurora, Thornton and Hampden.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Teeth whitening is not for young children. Most stained teeth in kids are normal or treatable with professional cleaning, good dental care, and the use of gentle products like hydroxyapatite-based whitening toothpaste. If your teen is concerned about their smile, talk to your dentist about safe whitening options.
Why Kids’ Teeth Can Look Yellow or Stained
Kids’ teeth can sometimes appear yellow or stained for various reasons, and it’s common for parents to be concerned about these changes.
While some factors are temporary, others may be linked to the natural growth process or habits that can be adjusted with proper care.
Here’s a breakdown of why this might happen:
- Baby teeth vs. permanent teeth: Permanent teeth are naturally more yellow than baby teeth. When the two mix during the transition, the contrast can make new teeth look darker. These variations in tooth color are completely normal as primary teeth fall out and adult teeth come in.
- Diet and oral hygiene habits: Acidic foods, poor brushing, or too much fluoride (fluorosis) can cause dull or discolored teeth.
- Medications or injury: Some antibiotics (like tetracycline) or early childhood trauma can stain developing teeth from the inside out, affecting the tooth pulp and internal color.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe for Children?
Most pediatric dentist associations advise against whitening before age 14 because tooth enamel is still developing. Whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide can cause tooth sensitivity or permanent damage.
If your child is at least 14 and has all their permanent teeth, your dentist may recommend supervised whitening options.
Safe Options for Brighter Teeth
To keep your child’s teeth looking their best, there are several safe and effective options available. These methods focus on improving oral care habits, diet, and professional treatments.
- Improve daily brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Supervise brushing until age 7–8 to make sure they are doing it well. Consider using hydroxyapatite toothpaste, a gentle and enamel-safe ingredient that can help remove surface stains without harsh chemicals.
- Avoid foods that stain teeth: Cut back on foods that cause cavities and discoloration like soda, candy, dark juices, and sports drinks. Instead, encourage foods that do not cause cavities like crunchy apples, cucumbers, cheese, and leafy greens. A healthy diet supports dental health and keeps natural teeth bright.
- Schedule a professional cleaning: Stains from teeth caused by plaque or tartar will not come off at home. A gentle cleaning by our dental professionals can make teeth look noticeably whiter. Removing stains from the surface of teeth is often all it takes to restore a white smile.
- Professional whitening vs. Over-The Counter Products: If your teen would like to whiten their teeth, talk to your dentist about professional whitening options suitable for teens. OTC options like whitening strips and whitening toothpaste can cause sensitivity and damage to the enamel.
Schedule Your Child’s Dental Visit Today
If it’s been awhile since your child had a checkup and cleaning or if you are searching for a new family dentist, we can help!
We specialize in dental treatment for children and offer safe, personalized advice based on your child’s stage of development. We see adults and children at all of our locations and we accept Medicaid!
Call your nearest Youth Dentistry & Orthodontics location today:
📍Denver Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 1400 Grove Street, Denver, CO 80204 | (303) 825-2295
📍Aurora Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 14251 E. 6th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 343-3133
📍Thornton Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 550 E. Thornton Parkway, Suite 240A, Thornton, CO 80229 | (303) 280-8878
📍Hampden Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 7400 East Hampden Ave. Unit C1, Denver, CO 80231 | (720) 826-3694
FAQs About Teeth Whitening for Kids
When can kids start whitening their teeth?
Usually not before age 14–15. The enamel must be fully developed, and all baby teeth should be gone. Talk to your dentist about whitening options and avoid over-the-counter whitening products.
Can whitening damage my child’s teeth?
Yes, if done too early or without supervision. Whitening products can cause tooth sensitivity or weaken tooth enamel.
