Stains may form on teeth due to numerous causes. They can be caused by the food and drinks we eat, smoking, the use of prescription drugs, and even as we age. Teeth whitening and veneer treatment by a cosmetic dentist in Kings Mountain can help. Understanding teeth whitening vs. veneers can be the key to identifying which one is right for a specific patient.
What are Whiteners?
Tooth whitening is possible with over-the-counter products, or a dentist can do it. OTC choices are available in the form of toothpaste, rinse, and whitening strips or trays available without a prescription. These treatments are, therefore, a do-it-yourself approach and are very affordable. The results vary, and they don’t work for everyone.
What are Veneers?
Veneers are not concerned with the functionality of the teeth; they are bonded on the anterior teeth, which are the incisor teeth, and not on the non-incisor posterior teeth, which are known as the molars. As a restoration technique, veneers are made of porcelain or a composite filling material that has to be directly bonded to the tooth.
What’s The Difference Between Teeth Whitening And Veneers?
Both the therapies vary in numerous ways, like:
- Veneers are long-term, whereas whitening is temporary. It takes several months to whiten the teeth, but to keep them shining; one has to redo the treatment. However, if a patient takes good care of veneers, then the latter can last longer than ten years.
- Veneers do not need much preparation, whereas whitening does not. Veneers require quite minimal preparation than any other treatment method; the only thing that may be done is contouring the teeth to fit the veneers. Most teeth whitening procedures are done in the dental clinic and involve making impressions of the teeth for the fabrication of the trays.
- Veneers can cover up different problems in the teeth, including chipped, cracked, or gapped teeth. Whitening procedures can not cover any cracks or dark spots and will only work to brighten the shade of a patient’s teeth.
- Veneers are more costly than the whitening procedures.
- Veneers involve the reduction of the tooth structure, and we all know that we cannot change a material’s color by simply applying something to it. To place the veneer, your dentist will have to shave a little bit of the tooth enamel. Teeth whitening treatment employs the use of bleach that alters the color of the teeth while at the same time not doing harm to the enamel.
- Veneers are irreversible, and whitening is not. After getting veneers, there is no turning back to the natural teeth since the enamel will have been shaved and filled with the veneer. Teeth whitening treatment can be stopped at any time if you have adverse effects or if you do not like the outcome.
Ultimately, teeth whitening and veneers are great treatments to help you achieve a gorgeous-looking smile. Whitening is affordable but not as long-lasting as veneers, which cost more but are more durable. To sum up, everything depends on the personal selection criteria based on necessity, cost, and personal characteristics.
Conclusion
Regardless of which option you select, it is crucial to understand that neither of these is an alternative to professional dental care. Speak to your dentist regarding the best course of action to take, and always remember to look after your teeth!
