Teeth Whitening Versus Veneers
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are very thin but immensely strong porcelain or composite resin shells that are bonded to the teeth. Because veneers are placed over the natural tooth, they can change the appearance of the tooth. This can give you the option to match the veneers to your natural tooth colour or to choose a brighter colour for a whiter smile. Veneers can also help to change the shape of the tooth by covering any tooth gaps or chips, or by changing the shape or length of the tooth. Because dental veneers are permanently bonded to the teeth, they will require the natural tooth to be shaved down and a permanent dental cement to be applied.
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening that is completed by a dental professional is a form of cosmetic dentistry that uses a strong bleaching agent to lift stains from the teeth to create a brighter and more even-toned smile. When conducted by a professional, this process is fast, safe, and painless. Teeth whitening is often used by people who are satisfied with the shape of their teeth but not the colour. Teeth whitening only works on stains that are in the enamel, or outermost part of the tooth. This type of staining is called extrinsic staining. If the tooth is stained in the dentin layer, the second layer of the tooth, teeth whitening will not be able to remove the stains. Staining of the dentin is called intrinsic staining. To learn more about what stains teeth whitening is effective on, read Which Stains Teeth Whitening Can Remove And Those It Can’t.
Which Is Better For Me?
This will depend on what your aesthetic and functional goals are as well as the condition of your teeth. If you are looking for whiter teeth without any change to the shape of the teeth, teeth whitening is likely the most suitable route. This form of cosmetic dentistry will not permanently change the shape of the natural tooth and can feel like less of a commitment than veneers. However, if your tooth staining is intrinsic, teeth whitening will not create the desired effect and staining will still be present. Teeth whitening is also not recommended if you have very sensitive teeth or gums. In these cases, dental veneers are a better option for you, as they will cover the tooth and hide any stains. Veneers are also ideal if you want teeth whitening as well as any minor tooth repairs, such as hiding a chipped tooth.
Please note: Veneers can be made in any desired shade but they cannot be bleached. Once the veneer is attached, you should not receive teeth whitening.
Calgary Teeth Whitening
If you want a bright, even-toned smile, in-office teeth whitening or veneers are both great options. If you are still unsure which of these cosmetic dentistry treatments is right for you, ask a Calgary dentist at Marlborough Dental Centre. Our dentists are highly experienced in cosmetic dentistry and can examine your teeth and have a discussion about your practical and aesthetic goals to help you decide which option is most suitable for you. If you are ready to brighten your teeth and get the beautiful pearly whites you’ve always dreamed of, contact Marlborough Dental Centre at 1-403-248-2066 or fill out the online contact form.
FAQ
Q: Can I whiten my teeth at home?
A: While there are various products sold at stores around Canada, at-home teeth whitening is not as effective as receiving teeth whitening from a trained dental professional. At-home teeth whitening also comes with aesthetic and physical risks. To learn more about the dangers of at-home teeth whitening, read The Risks Of At-Home Teeth Whitening.
Q: How long do veneers last?
A: If properly cared for, veneers can last up to 20 years. Learn more about veneers by reading The Facts About Veneers.
Q: How long does tooth whitening last?
A: That will depend on your personal lifestyle, specifically the foods you eat. If you get your teeth whitened and then drink coffee and citrus juice all day, your teeth will likely become discoloured after a month. Those who avoid tooth-damaging foods will get a much longer result. Help prolong your teeth whitening results by knowing How To Keep Your Teeth Whiter, Longer After Teeth Whitening Treatment.
