Veneers vs. Teeth Whitening: Which Is Right for You?
Switching it up and deciding to make a change with your smile is great! Our Jackson, MI, cosmetic dentists believe that every patient deserves to love how their teeth look whether they’re reflecting back at you in the mirror or captured in a group picture with friends and family. One thing though: are you choosing porcelain veneers or teeth whitening?
Here’s how the treatments differ as well as factors that can cause you to lean one way more than the other.
Understanding the Two Procedures
Veneers and teeth whitening are both popular cosmetic dental procedures aimed at achieving a brighter, more aesthetically-pleasing smile. There are key differences, however, and each distinction should be taken into consideration before moving forward.
For starters, teeth whitening is a non-invasive approach to improving the appearance, namely the shade, of your teeth. This procedure is designed to remove surface stains and tooth discoloration caused by external factors such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. It’s a quick process that can be performed at home or in our Jackson, MI, dental office for noticeable results in a relatively short time.
On the other hand, involve the application of thin, custom-made shells to the front surface of your teeth. Veneers are a versatile solution that can address a range of cosmetic dental issues, including chipped, stained, misaligned, or unevenly shaped teeth. They are known for their durability and long-lasting effects, making them a preferred choice for more comprehensive smile makeovers.
Teeth Whitening Pros & “Cons”
There are several advantages to mull over when it comes to the . First and foremost, teeth whitening doesn’t require altering the structure of your teeth in any way. It’s a straightforward, surface-level treatment that focuses on removing stains and discoloration from enamel. As a result, no sculpting or trimming is needed.
Additionally, teeth whitening can deliver impressive results in a short amount of time, i.e., after one appointment. To many people, this is ideal if there’s a special event or occasion coming up. The convenience and speed of teeth whitening make it a popular choice among individuals seeking a brighter smile without a major time commitment.
Teeth whitening does come with some limitations, though they are minimal. One such drawback is that both at-home and in-office teeth whitening are primarily effective at removing surface stains caused by extrinsic factors like food or drinks. Intrinsic discoloration, which is staining that occurs within the tooth’s structure, may not respond as well to traditional teeth whitening treatments.
Our dentists can take a closer look at your smile to determine whether the darker shade of your teeth is inherently extrinsic or intrinsic. If you have deep-seated stains, there is a chance you may not achieve the desired level of whiteness with teeth whitening alone.
Porcelain Veneers Pros & “Cons”
If you’re looking for a bit more of a dramatic transformation, veneers might be the answer. One of the primary benefits of this option is the ability to correct a variety of imperfections. Whether you’re dealing with teeth that are chipped, stained, gapped, or misshapen, porcelain veneers can get the job done thanks to the placement of wafer thin shells.
Durability is another significant pro associated with veneers. With proper care, veneers can last up to 15 years, making them a wise long-term investment in your smile’s aesthetics. They are also highly resistant to staining, providing a consistent, vibrant appearance even if you enjoy foods and beverages known to discolor natural teeth.
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Strengths aside, the cost and overall commitment to veneers may turn some patients away. They are typically more expensive than teeth whitening treatments, mainly due to their customization and the higher level of skill required for the procedure. Moreover, the process involves the removal of a small amount of enamel from your teeth to accommodate the veneers which is an irreversible step.
Determining Your Best Fit
Ultimately, you are the only one who can make the final decision. Our dentists can guide you through the processes and explain every detail but your budget, current oral health, and smile goals all play a role in determining whether you proceed with teeth whitening or veneers. We recommend scheduling a consultation so our team can sit down with you and run through both options prior to a choice being made.
Make an Appointment
Our , are here to help regardless of the treatment you go with. Call The Dental Experience today at (517) 787-5367 to request an appointment and we’ll see you soon!