Teeth Whitening vs. Porcelain Veneers
The desire to reverse tooth stains and discoloration is a common cosmetic goal. Fortunately, there are treatments that can significantly improve the shade and overall appearance of teeth. For patients with these goals, our Naperville cosmetic dentist – David R. Newkirk, DDS – often recommends two effective and natural-looking solutions for a more radiant smile: porcelain veneers and teeth whitening. Below, Dr. Newkirk shares the basics of each option.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin shells placed over the front of the teeth and secured by a strong dental adhesive. Veneers are completely customizable by fit and color to blend in seamlessly with surrounding teeth while masking discoloration and other aesthetic issues. When crafted by a professional, their potential benefits include:
- Concealing deep stains and discolorations
- Revealing instant transformative results
- Providing a long-term solution
- Correcting other cosmetic issues such as chips and gaps
Despite their slim-set material, porcelain veneers are extremely durable and can last for decades with proper care. It is important to note that the veneers procedure does require some removal of the original tooth structure to create the best fit over the tooth. With that said, this process generally allows porcelain veneers to provide a very reliable solution for a brighter, healthier-looking smile.
Teeth Whitening
High-quality teeth whitening systems with prescription-strength ingredients are often one of the easiest ways to achieve a more dazzling smile. Dental-approved bleaching gels, such as the Opalescence™ PF take-home teeth whitening trays offered at our practice, can be used until the desired shade of whiteness is accomplished. During the process, the custom-made trays fit snugly to the teeth so the bleaching gel can get to work oxidizing the stains and reversing the effects of discoloration. Customized teeth whitening trays can:
- Lighten teeth by several shades
- Offer a non-invasive cosmetic treatment
- Deliver visible results in a short amount of time
- Provide a cost-effective solution
Although teeth whitening can be highly successful, it cannot erase all types of stains or discolorations and touch-up treatments are generally needed every one to two years. However, with good oral hygiene and avoiding items such as coffee, soda, wine, berries, and tobacco, results may extend for a longer outcome.
During a comprehensive evaluation and consultation, Dr. Newkirk can assess all of the patient’s concerns and dental health to determine the best course of treatment for a brilliantly bright and refreshed smile. To learn more about correcting teeth stains and discoloration, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Newkirk, please contact Naperville Cosmetic Dentistry today.