Teeth Whitening for Teens
Providing Pediatric Dental Care in Frisco, McKinney and Prosper, TX
It is common for teens to become more aware of their smile as they grow older. Whether it is for yearbook photos, special events, or social confidence, many teenagers express interest in teeth whitening. At Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry, we support that confidence while keeping oral health and safety a top priority.
We offer Opalescence Go, a trusted professional-grade whitening system that is safe, convenient, and appropriate for teens when used under a dentist’s supervision. If your teen is ready to brighten their smile, our team can help guide the process and determine the best time to start.
Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry offers teeth whitening for teens in Frisco, McKinney, and Prosper, TX.
Is It Safe for Teens to Whiten Their Teeth?
In general, whitening is not recommended until at least age 14. This allows time for the permanent teeth to fully erupt and for the internal tooth structures to finish developing. Whitening too early can lead to tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or temporary nerve discomfort.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that whitening be considered only when all permanent teeth have erupted and dental development is complete. Whitening too early can lead to tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or temporary nerve discomfort.
Why We Recommend Opalescence Go for Teens
Opalescence Go is a take-home whitening system that offers the strength of professional whitening in a form that is easy and safe to use. Unlike drugstore products, Opalescence Go is distributed through dental offices and used under the guidance of a dentist.
The system includes pre-filled, disposable trays that adapt comfortably to most smiles with no need for impressions or custom fittings. The whitening gel contains potassium nitrate and fluoride to help reduce sensitivity and protect enamel, making it a great choice for teen patients.
Opalescence Go is available in two concentrations:
- 10% hydrogen peroxide, worn for 30 to 60 minutes daily for 5 to 10 days
- 15% hydrogen peroxide, worn for 15 to 20 minutes daily for 5 to 10 days
Both options deliver noticeable results while minimizing sensitivity and risk to developing teeth. Because treatment is supervised by a pediatric dentist, your teen receives the right product strength and guidance throughout the process.
Don’t Fall For DIY Social Media Hacks!
Green whitening strips, purple color-correcting toothpaste, charcoal powders, and other DIY social media hacks may look trendy, but they can do more harm than good. These products often lead to enamel damage, gum irritation, or sensitivity without delivering lasting results. If you want a whitening treatment that actually works, talk to your dentist about professional whitening products.
Professional Whitening vs Over-the-Counter Products
Social media has made teeth whitening look quick and easy. From whitening strips and gel pens to LED light kits and natural DIY trends, teens are exposed to many products that promise fast results. But what works in a video is not always safe in real life.
Many of these products are safe and may contain high levels of peroxide or other harsh ingredients. Without dental supervision, teens may overuse these products or apply them incorrectly, leading to enamel damage, gum irritation, or long-term sensitivity.
Professional whitening is safer because it is guided by a dentist who understands when and how whitening should be used. The ingredients are formulated to protect young teeth, and the treatment is only offered when a teen is truly ready.
This chart compares common over-the-counter whitening products with professional whitening options like Opalescence Go. It highlights the key differences in safety, fit, supervision, and effectiveness.
| Comparison | Over-the-Counter Products | Professional Whitening |
| Guidance | Used without dental supervision | Provided and monitored by a dentist |
| Fit | One-size trays or strips | Pre-filled trays designed to fit comfortably |
| Safety for Teens | May cause sensitivity or gum irritation | Contains ingredients to protect enamel and reduce sensitivity |
| Results | Can be uneven or unpredictable | Gradual, consistent whitening over several days |
| Timing | Often used too early | Only recommended when permanent teeth are fully developed |
What to Expect from the Whitening Process
If your teen is interested in whitening, we will begin with a full dental evaluation. This includes:
- Confirming that all permanent teeth have erupted
- Assessing the health of the enamel and gums
- Discussing any history of tooth sensitivity
- Identifying causes of discoloration, including diet, hygiene, or medications
If whitening is appropriate, we will provide detailed instructions on how to use Opalescence Go at home. The trays are worn for a short period each day, based on the strength selected. Treatment typically lasts 5 to 10 days.
We will also explain which foods and drinks to avoid during whitening, how to care for the teeth during treatment, and what to do if any sensitivity occurs.
Supporting Long-Term Oral Health
Teeth whitening can be a great confidence booster for teens, but it is only part of the picture. We help families focus on strong oral hygiene habits, regular cleanings, and stain prevention through proper brushing and smart food choices. In many cases, a professional cleaning can remove surface stains and improve tooth brightness without any whitening agents at all.
For teens who are good candidates, Opalescence Go offers a safe, supervised option that avoids the risks of DIY kits while delivering noticeable results.
How to Keep Your Smile Bright
After whitening your teeth, try to avoid things that can stain them again, like coffee, tea, soda, sports drinks, dark berries, and red sauces. If you do have them, rinse with water afterward or use a straw to keep the liquid away from your teeth. Brushing regularly and keeping up with your cleanings will help your smile stay bright longer.
Ready to Help Your Teen Smile with Confidence?
If your teen is asking about teeth whitening, the safest place to start is with a trusted pediatric dentist. At Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry, we help families decide when whitening is appropriate and provide safe, dentist-approved options like Opalescence Go.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Frisco, TX call (214) 618-5200 or complete the online contact form. We are located at 6801 Warren Parkway, Suite 115, Frisco, TX.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in McKinney, TX, call (214) 436-5555 or complete the online contact form. We are located at 5323 W University Dr #100 McKinney, TX.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Prosper, TX, call (469) 228-4402 or complete the online contact form. We are located at 240 S. Preston Road, Suite 10, Prosper.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Frisco, TX call (214) 618-5200 or complete the online contact form. We are located at 6801 Warren Parkway, Suite 115, Frisco, TX.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in McKinney, TX, call (214) 436-5555 or complete the online contact form. We are located at 5323 W University Dr #100 McKinney, TX.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Prosper, TX, call (469) 228-4402 or complete the online contact form. We are located at 240 S. Preston Road, Suite 10, Prosper.