My 10-year-old son recently fell and severely fractured his two front teeth. Most of each tooth was gone, with only small pieces remaining on the edges. The dentist rebuilt them with bonding, but the result is disappointing.

The teeth look bulky and uneven, and they’re noticeably shorter than before. I don’t want this to affect his confidence at such a young age.

Are the cosmetic dentists you recommend experienced with children? If not, could you guide me toward someone who can help us correct this? – Thanks. Naomi from TN

Naomi,

Bonding is conservative and appropriate for a child’s front tooth. The difficulty lies in making it look natural when a large portion of the tooth structure is missing.

These cases require true artistry. That’s why similar cases appear in high-level cosmetic dentistry accreditation exams.

Should You Worry About Cooperation?

If your son can remain calm and follow instructions, he should do well. Age alone does not determine success, though. Dentists who enjoy cosmetic work often treat cooperative children comfortably. The main challenge arises with very young children who cannot sit through detailed procedures.

Why Should Crowns Be Avoided in Young Front Teeth?

Crowning a 10-year-old’s front tooth creates long-term risks that outweigh convenience.

At his age:

• The pulp is still large and vulnerable, increasing the likelihood of needing a root canal if the tooth is aggressively prepared.
• The tooth will continue erupting, which can expose the crown margin over time and compromise aesthetics.

What Would I Suggest?

Find a highly skilled cosmetic dentist and proceed with bonding. Done correctly, it will look completely natural and preserve the health of his tooth. This approach protects both his smile today and his long-term dental health.

This post is sponsored by Lowell dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.