Are you self-conscious about your smile? You aren’t the only one. Many people wish they could show off Hollywood pearly whites. Fortunately, there are a couple of dental procedures that could achieve this. You might already be considering getting one of the popular options: teeth whitening or veneers. But which of the two is the right choice for you? Keep reading as your cosmetic dentist in Superior compares the different treatments and their benefits!
What Can Teeth Whitening Do?
Teeth whitening is primarily designed to brighten your smile by several shades. Your dentist will create custom trays for your specific bite and provide the professional-grade bleaching agent. Afterwards, you’ll be able to wear the trays and lighten your pearl whites in the convenience of your home.
While teeth whitening treatment helps create a whiter smile, it won’t prevent your teeth from getting stained or discolored in the future. Over time, your enamel may require additional whitening appointments to regain the optimal shine again.
What Can Veneers Do?
Porcelain veneers not only offer a permanent tooth whitening solution, but they can also restore mild imperfections—like stained, chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth. Additionally, they’re made of durable and tooth-colored material, meaning they’ll work and feel like your natural teeth.
Veneers are wafer-thin, porcelain shells that go on the front of your smile. Before cementing them, however, your dentist will need to prepare your teeth by shaving a tiny portion off the front of each—depending on the changes you desire. Once placed, they’ll be fused to your real teeth to create a single unit.
Which Treatment Is Best For You?
Choosing between teeth whitening and veneers all depends on the results you want. With teeth whitening, you’ll have a convenient and affordable method to brighten your smile for some time. This treatment only addresses discoloration issues, but it should suffice if you’re content with your natural overall smile.
Veneers are able to completely change and enhance your pearly whites, and their effects can last you up to 20 years with proper maintenance. They’re also more expensive than teeth whitening since they offer a personalized smile design.
Both cosmetic dental treatments are effective ways to improve your teeth. With their differences in mind, you should feel more confident in knowing what to expect from either choice. Speak with your dentist if you’re interested, and they’ll be glad to discuss your options!
About the Author
Dr. H. Douglas Clark has provided outstanding, modern, and comprehensive dental care for over a decade. He’s also a proud member of several groups including the American and Wisconsin Dental Associations, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He offers a vast selection of treatments, such as teeth whitening and veneers, to help improve and maintain your beautiful smile. If you’d like to know more about teeth whitening and veneers, feel free to visit our website or call 715-392-5161.