Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, so deciding to enhance it is a big deal! Teeth whitening and veneers are two popular options for brightening your pearly whites, but they work in very different ways. If you’re trying to decide which is right for you, continue reading. This guide will break down the key differences between teeth whitening and veneers to help you make the best choice for you!
Why Should You Choose Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a very non-invasive cosmetic treatment that can remove stains and discoloration from your natural teeth. Whether your stains come from coffee, wine, or aging, whitening treatments can help!
However, if you have restorations like crowns, bridges, or veneers whitening won’t help. This is because dental restorations are made from non-porous materials like porcelain that are unaffected by the chemicals in whitening agents.
So, if you want to enhance your natural smile and address mild to moderate staining without altering your teeth, whitening can do wonders!
Why Should You Choose Veneers
Veneers are thin sheaths of porcelain that are bonded to the front of your teeth. They can cover discoloration, gaps, chips, and even slightly crooked teeth, creating a completely new look for your smile!
These restorations also last a lot longer than whitening treatments, sometimes decades with a good oral care routine. This is because they’re not only durable but also resistant to acids and pigments that would stain your natural teeth.
While veneers are excellent, they can also require a greater investment depending on how many teeth need to be covered. In addition, veneers require that a portion of your tooth enamel is removed so the shells rest flat against your teeth.
This is never more material than the width of a mechanical pencil lead. However, it does mean that, once treated, you’ll always need veneers to protect your smile.
For patients looking for a dramatic change or those with issues beyond discoloration like chipped or uneven teeth, veneers are a fantastic solution!
If you’re still unsure which option is right for you, your dentist can give your smile a once-over and recommend the treatment that best suits your needs. Whether you choose teeth whitening, veneers, or a combination of both, you’ll be one step closer to the smile you’ve always wanted!
About the Practice
At Warwick Dentistry, Dr. Joyce Warwick and Dr. John Warwick are a passionate and professional husband-and-wife dental team. They offer quality work for every patient, helping them to achieve their vision through restorative and cosmetic treatments. Whatever you need to smile with confidence, they can help! Call (412) 391-1130 to schedule a cosmetic dentistry appointment with our team or visit our website to explore other services.