[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Teeth Whitening vs. Veneers, that is the question. Would it be better for you to have your natural teeth whitened or to cap those natural teeth with a new veneer? Either can be a great option depending on your goals and your dentist recommendations. Either option has pros and cons. 

Your decision may come down to how much you want to spend, how long you want to spend in the dentist’s chair, how permanent you want your solution to be, what types of problems you want to address, and how much discomfort you’re willing to endure. 

The Teeth Whitening and Veneers Process

Teeth whitening is done through various methods, ranging from applying whitening agents to using a specialized light. The dentist will use tools and devices to isolate your teeth for easy access during the procedure and protect your lips and gums. Sometimes your dentist can provide whitening trays to wear over your teeth. The trays hold a whitening gel in place. The dentist also might use a blue-light machine during treatment. Regardless of the method, you’ll generally see fast results with professional teeth whitening.

Veneers are generally porcelain caps that fit over your natural teeth. Though each veneer keeps your natural tooth in place, your tooth may need reshaping for the veneer to fit. The veneer forms a strong, long-lasting, beautiful match for your teeth and smile. 

Both Options Can Make Your Teeth Look Great

Teeth whitening and veneers can be great cosmetic dental options. Both options can whiten your teeth and improve your smile. Veneers can improve beyond just whitening, including straightening teeth and changing size and shape.

Veneers are typically made of porcelain. Like glass, porcelain is nonporous. The dense, smooth veneer material makes them stain-resistant. Veneers can last 10 to 30 years, and you typically never have to worry about whitening them.

Misaligned teeth are also a cosmetic concern that veneers can correct. Veneers can improve alignment and bite functionality. Good bite functionality ensures that you use the correct teeth for their intended purpose. Your incisors in the front of your mouth are meant for biting into food, and the molars in the back are meant for chewing. 

Using the wrong teeth for the wrong purpose can affect your oral and overall health. An example might be using your incisors for chewing. A poor bite can cause wear and pain, affecting your ability to eat certain foods. It can also affect your speech.

In addition to whitening and strengthening, veneers can also improve tooth size, shape, and spacing. Teeth that are too small or have too much space in between might look and feel less attractive than you’d prefer. 

Teeth Whitening vs. Veneers – the Pros and Cons

Teeth whitening is a faster, less invasive option. Teeth whitening also might be a less expensive option than veneers. Veneers involve more work and more trips to the dentist’s office (although not too many). 

So why wouldn’t you go with veneers? Why would you ever consider teeth whitening? 

Teeth whitening results can be quick, but they only last for so long. Your teeth can stain again, unlike with veneers. And teeth whitening generally will not remove all stains. 

Teeth whitening is a simpler process. With veneers, the natural tooth must be reshaped, which takes more time. The process is generally not painful, but including the anesthesia administration and more time in the dentist’s chair, you might experience more discomfort. 

We Can Help With Your Decision

You may have lots of pros and cons to consider with teeth-whitening vs. veneers. We can help you weigh those pros and cons with professional, expert advice. Come talk to us at Dr. Lance Savoie Family Dental. We’ve helped many patients with both types of procedures, and we’d look forward to helping you too. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]