You’ve seen perfectly white smiles on everyone from social media influencers to stars on the big screen. Having bright, clean teeth has become a part of beauty standards today and many people feel like they don’t measure up. Fortunately, your dentist has cosmetic solutions that can help, such as teeth whitening and porcelain veneers. You may be excited to learn that you don’t have to live with flaws forever, but how do you decide which treatment works best for you? Keep reading to learn more about them both so you can make an informed decision.
Option #1: Teeth Whitening
If your teeth are tinted by years’ worth of exposure to foods and drinks that stain, you’re not alone. If your smile looks dark and dull, you may feel tempted to pick up a whitening kit from your local store. You may later come to regret your decision, though, because over-the-counter products often contain abrasive whitening agents. These can wear down the enamel of your teeth and cause sensitivity.
Visiting your dentist is the best way to safely lighten your grin. They have access to professional-grade ingredients that won’t cause the same sensitivity and get better results. Plus, they’ll protect your gums and soft tissues with rubber shields, so they’re not impacted. If that doesn’t suit you, ask your dentist for a take-home kit. They can provide customized application trays and a high-quality gel for you to whiten your teeth from the comfort of your own home.
Option #2: Porcelain Veneers
Teeth whitening is a great way to remove surface problems, but unfortunately, some discoloration originates from inside your pearly whites. That means it can’t be effectively bleached away. In these cases, porcelain veneers may be a better option. These thin, ceramic shells are bonded to the front surface of your teeth to mask imperfections like chips, cracks, gaps, and untouchable stains.
For veneers to line up correctly, your dentist must remove a thin layer of enamel before placing them. This protective outer layer doesn’t regenerate so your teeth are permanently altered. You’ll need to have a veneer or other form of protection to cover it moving forward to shield it from potential injury. Thankfully, veneers can last 15+ years with the right care and are durable enough to resist additional damage. This makes them a great long-term solution to mask flaws that can’t be touched otherwise.
The best way to make a final decision is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. They’ll examine your mouth and make recommendations based on their findings. Either way, you’ll soon have a brighter smile to show for it!
About the Author
Dr. Megan McInnis enjoys building a trusting relationship with her patients to help them build healthy, beautiful smiles. She graduated Cum Laude from Texas A&M University with a degree in Biomedical Sciences and earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Texas A&M Health Science Center Baylor College of Dentistry. She provides a wide range of services and goes above and beyond to meet your dental needs and expectations. If you’d like to whiten your teeth and aren’t sure what treatment is best, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (503) 761-1414.