Are your pearly whites not as pearly white as you would like them to be? If so, you’re definitely not alone! In fact, as many as 80% of Americans wish they had brighter teeth. You may have considered getting professional teeth whitening treatment from your cosmetic dentist in Allen, but veneers can also be a great way to get a more beautiful smile. So, should you get teeth whitening or veneers? Here are some of the differences to consider!
The Problems They Can Solve
Both veneers and teeth whitening work to make your teeth appear whiter, but the specific issues they can address are different. For example, teeth whitening in Allen can only get rid of stains on the surface of the tooth enamel, such as those caused by tobacco or dark foods and beverages. Veneers, on the other hand, are ceramic shells that completely cover the front surfaces of the teeth. Not only do veneers conceal deeply set stains, but they can simultaneously correct chips, cracks, uneven spacing, and even slight crookedness.
In short, whitening is probably the solution for you if the only problem you have with your teeth is their shade, or if the discoloration is surface-level. Likewise, veneers are ideal if you’re looking to make major improvements.
Treatment Process
Generally, it takes longer to get veneers than it does to get your teeth professionally whitened. With whitening, it’s possible for your dentist to lighten your teeth by several shades in a single appointment with a potent in-office treatment. Alternatively, they can give you a custom take-home kit that delivers the same results after about two weeks of daily use.
The veneers process tends to take at least three or four weeks on average. First, your dentist reshapes your teeth to create ample room for the veneers and then takes impressions to send to a dental lab. You’ll wear temporaries for a month or so until your final veneers arrive at your dentist’s office.
Longevity of the Results
No teeth whitening treatment is designed to last forever. Your enamel will inevitably darken again, but if you take good care of your teeth after treatment, your results may last for several months to a year or longer.
In contrast, veneers in Allen can last for an average of 15 years, provided you maintain good oral health. Dental porcelain is very resistant to staining, so veneers should keep their brighter shade for most if not all of their lifespan.
It’s worth mentioning that getting veneers is considered irreversible. Some enamel has to be removed prior to placing veneers, and lost enamel cannot grow back. Therefore, these teeth will always need veneers or crowns for protection moving forward.
Your Cosmetic Dentist Is Here to Help You Decide!
Making the right decision for your smile isn’t always easy. That’s why you should never hesitate to ask your cosmetic dentist about your options. Depending on the exact changes you want to make, they can discuss the pros and cons of veneers vs. teeth whitening and help you choose the best solution for your unique smile!
About the Practice
At PA Dental Arts, we’re proud to help the community of Allen, TX smile more brightly and confidently by offering a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including take-home and in-office teeth whitening as well as veneers. If you’re struggling to decide between the two, Dr. Christina Blacher and Dr. Yeri Guak would love to help you explore your options! Get in touch with us today by calling 214-383-5511.