One of the first things others notice about you is the condition of your grin, and if yours is darkened by stains, you might worry about how you’ll be perceived. Tinted teeth can leave you feeling so self-conscious that you might try to remain tight-lipped instead of engaging in conversations or smiling authentically.
Thankfully, your dentist can provide various cosmetic services to enhance your appearance. Two popular treatments for discoloration are teeth whitening and porcelain veneers, but how do you know which is best for you? Continue reading to learn more about each option so you can decide!
What is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to improve your smile. Although you can find commercially available pastes and kits, they often contain abrasive ingredients that can cause tooth sensitivity. Meanwhile, your dentist has access to professional-grade gels that can lighten your pearly whites by several shades in a single, hour-long appointment. If you’re short on time, many providers also offer take-home kits using the same top-quality materials as well as customized trays to fit your teeth like a glove. That way, you can achieve the desired results from the comfort of your own home.
When is Teeth Whitening Ideal?
This procedure is perfect for those wanting to remove discoloration from the outermost layer of their teeth. These extrinsic stains often occur after years of exposure to dark pigments in different foods and beverages you consume. Common culprits include coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries.
However, not all blemishes exist on your enamel. Intrinsic imperfections originate or penetrate the layer of dentin below, so whitening won’t affect them. In these instances, your dentist can mask them with veneers instead.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin shells made of durable porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of your tooth to hide aesthetic flaws. The resilient ceramic material is customized to match the shade and shape of your natural pearly whites so that once they’re placed, no one will know the difference. They’re often used to address chips, cracks, minor gaps, slightly crooked teeth, and stubborn stains.
When Are Veneers Ideal?
If you have intrinsic stains that topical treatment cannot resolve, veneers are a wonderful long-term solution. If they’re regularly maintained, they can last anywhere from 10 to 30+ years. They’re also the perfect remedy if you’re frustrated by other issues in addition to discoloration. They can be used to cover one or more flaws all at the same time.
However, for veneers to line up flush against your gums, your dentist must remove a thin layer of enamel from the underlying tooth. Because it doesn’t regenerate, it’s considered an irreversible change. You’ll need to have a veneer or other restoration in place moving forward so your teeth aren’t left vulnerable to potential injury.
If you still are unsure which option best meets your needs, the best way to find out is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They’ll examine your mouth and make recommendations based on their findings. Either way, you’ll be on your way to having a beautifully bright smile that you’re proud to show off!
About the Practice
At Bayville Dental Arts, patients benefit from a full array of services provided by two experts with decades of combined experience. They have the advanced training and experience to handle all your dental needs, whether you require basic preventative care or want to improve your appearance with cosmetic procedures. They take time to get to know you so that they can create fully individualized treatment plans to help you achieve the desired results. If you’re frustrated by stains and would like a consultation, you can request an appointment on the website or by calling (732) 269-3200.