You catch your reflection in a photo, and there it is again, that little pause before you smile. Maybe it’s a stain that won’t budge no matter how many whitening strips you try. Maybe it’s a chip you’ve been hiding for years. Regardless of what problem you want to address, chances are, you are seeking a solution. Luckily, there is. In order to choose the right solution, you have to know the differences between teeth whitening and veneers.
What Teeth Whitening Can Fix
This procedure focuses on the natural color of enamel. It helps with discolorations caused by the use of coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco, or simply getting older. If your enamel is healthy and the only concern you have about your smile is discoloration, whitening may be the answer.
Unlike over-the-counter whitening products, professional teeth whitening is always predictable. The dentist will examine your mouth prior to the procedure so that you can avoid any surprises such as an uneven effect or increased sensitivity. Sensitivity after the treatment is sometimes experienced but it is temporary.
What Veneers Can Help With?
The thin tooth-colored shells can cover the fronts of your teeth. Unlike whitening, veneers are not limited to color problems. Instead, chips, gaps, uneven edges, deep stains, and all other problems whitening cannot help with are fixed using veneers.
Before you get veneers, you have to plan the procedure as it involves the removal of some enamel. However, the effect you will achieve in return is long-lasting.
How Are Teeth Whitening and Veneers Different?
The comparison of the two procedures is easy and straightforward:
- Objective: Whitening aims at improving the color of the teeth, while veneers help with color, shape, and size.
- Invasiveness: No part of the enamel is treated during the whitening procedure, while veneers require some prep.
- Maintenance: Whitening requires periodic touch-ups, and veneers need constant maintenance in order to stay undamaged.
- Best for: Surface stains are fixed with the help of whitening and chips, gaps, and other shape problems are fixed with veneers.
Which Option Will Work Better for You?
If the only problem you are facing with your teeth is their discoloration and your teeth are otherwise healthy, whitening is your way to go. This procedure is less invasive and may become a great addition to the smile makeover you want to achieve. Just remember that if you have crowns or fillings, they will not be whitened.
However, if you have chips or gaps in your teeth, or deep stains that whitening cannot address, veneers are better for you. However, they will not work with cavities or gum disease.
Why You Need a Consultation?
The condition of your enamel, bite, gums, and other details of your oral health are important when choosing a procedure. This is precisely why a consultation is important. A dentist will show you the possible outcomes and may even recommend whitening your teeth before you get veneers to make sure the shade matches.
Do not base your decision on an image you found online or a low price tag. A customized plan ensures your success and your oral health.
Ready for a Whiter, More Confident Smile?
There are many options that may help you improve the appearance of your teeth, but the choice has to be based on their condition. Aransas Pass Dental Clinic can help you make the right choice.
Schedule a consultation and get one step closer to your smile.