My son is embarrassed because his two front teeth are almost broken in half. Although I’ve repeatedly told him that he is as handsome as ever to me, he is in school and wants to fit in. He says that the kids are not teasing him, but he is still embarrassed.

Neither tooth hurts, and my son’s pediatric dentist says the tooth roots are fine. I would like to know if something like a snap-on smile will work for him. But I need a version that he can keep on all while at school. If he takes it off to each lunch, I am afraid that he will lose it. He is 9 years old and still a little forgetful and loses things a lot, even if they are important to him. Can he wear a snap-on smile or an alternative for kids until he is old enough for crowns? – Thank you. Emilia from AL

Emilia,

We are sorry to hear about your son’s broken teeth and embarrassment. A Snap-on Smile may work okay for adults or children with all their permanent teeth. But it may not be healthy for your son.

How Does a Snap-On Smile Work for Children?

Although a dentist can have a Snap-on Smile made for a child, you can expect several issues depending on the child’s age.

• Bulkiness – The appliance fits over your son’s teeth and will make them look bulky. Your son may still be embarrassed by bulky teeth that do not look natural.
• Losing the appliance – Most children would lose a Snap-on Smile. And if your son is already forgetful, you would need to get a new appliance every time he loses it.
• Mixed detention – Your son has a mixture of primary and permanent teeth. As your son’s teeth continue to grow and develop, you will need to replace the Snap-on Smile as often as every few months. Also, the appliance may interfere with tooth eruption and development.

Restoring a Child’s Broken Front Teeth

A skilled cosmetic dentist can restore a child’s broken front teeth with porcelain or composite bonding. And the dentist will use a technique that does not weaken your son’s teeth or disrupt his bite. When his teeth are fully developed, the dentist can restore your son’s teeth with crowns.

But the repair is beyond the skillset of a pediatric dentist, so look for an advanced—preferably accredited—cosmetic dentist who regularly treats children.

Best wishes for your son’s teeth and restoring his confidence.

 

David Finley, DDS of Monroe, LA, sponsors this post.