What is better for getting whiter teeth: teeth whitening by a dentist, or dental veneers? Teeth whitening is the obvious candidate for whiter teeth, but what many people don’t realize is that veneers are a great option too, especially if there are other corrections required.
Teeth whitening
Whitening involves applying a bleaching agent such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Teeth whitening procedures performed by a dentist offer far superior results to what a person can achieve with off-the-shelf teeth whitening gels and pastes. The procedure can remove stains and correct/lighten tooth discoloration.
Pros
- Teeth whitening procedures can be completed in as little as an hour
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Immediate results
Cons
- Short term results and whitening must be performed regularly
- Results may not last if proper dental hygiene is not maintained
- Not all discoloration can be fixed by whitening
Dental veneers
Dental veneers are shells made of porcelain or composite and are placed over the surface of the tooth. Veneers are available in a variety of shades, matching a patient’s preference. Veneers are ideal for people who want whiter teeth and want to correct another abnormality such as gaps between teeth, persistent discoloration, chips, or cracks in teeth.
Pros
- Dental veneers can correct misshapen and spacing between teeth
- A single procedure that also provides a lasting white smile
- If properly cared for, veneers can last more than 15 years
Cons
- The procedure requires multiple sittings with the dentist
- The host teeth may need to be ‘shaped’ to accommodate veneers
- Biting down on hard foods (like ice or nuts) can damage the veneer
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Teeth whitening or veneers?
Which procedure is right for you depends on a number of factors such as your age if you have any underlying oral conditions, if you have the time to complete a veneer procedure, if you require/get teeth whitening frequently, and if you are willing to invest in veneers.
You should also ask yourself if you just want whiter teeth or a complete smile transformation. People expecting ‘the perfect smile’ find whiter teeth don’t always translate into ideal results. Cracks, chips, and misshapen teeth cannot be fixed by teeth whitening.
Both teeth whitening and dental veneers are painless procedures. Before veneers are put in place, the tooth must be shaped slightly to seat the veneer snugly on the tooth. Only a small amount of the tooth is removed.
Talk to a dentist at Dawson Dental about the benefits of teeth whitening and dental veneers. We work with patients to schedule comfortable treatment schedules; help you understand insurance coverage and work out easy financing options. We have over 25 locations across Ontario so you are never far from a qualified and experienced dentist.
You can also schedule a video chat with our Chief Dental Surgeon to discuss your options.