Are you considering teeth whitening in Albion? This simple treatment can help transform your smile and boost your self-confidence, but it may not be your best solution. When issues with your teeth extend beyond staining and discoloration, other cosmetic treatments, such as dental veneers, may be in order.
But how do you know when to seek teeth whitening in Albion and when to opt for veneers? This simple guide will give you the important information you need to understand your options.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic dental procedure in which your dentist uses a special whitening agent to help combat staining and discoloration in your teeth.
Teeth whitening is fast, easy, and non-invasive, with few potential side effects. One possible side effect, however, is a temporary increase in sensitivity to your teeth. This issue typically fades quickly and can be managed with anti-inflammatories, special gels, toothpaste, and soft-bristled brushes.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are a cosmetic treatment that addresses issues with front-facing teeth, including small gaps, minor misalignments, small chips and cracks, discoloration and staining, uneven spacing, unusually shaped teeth, and more. Veneers are small tooth-shaped shells custom-made from porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin. Your dentist prepares your teeth, takes a mold, and then sends the mold out to a dental lab. Once the lab sends back your custom veneers, you’ll return to the office for your dentist to fit them over your teeth to give you a healthy, symmetrical smile.
Teeth Whitening vs. Veneers: Which Is the Better Option?
When choosing teeth whitening or dental veneers, the decision comes down to what issues you want to address with your teeth. If it’s anything beyond staining and discoloration, then whitening may not be enough, and veneers may be the correct answer. If staining and discoloration are all that you’re looking to address, then consider the following points:
Teeth Whitening Is More Affordable
Dental veneers are considerably more expensive than teeth whitening1 — as they should be: they’re a much more in-depth procedure, requiring a few visits and custom lab fabrication of your veneers. Although veneers can address multiple issues and give you a brand-new smile, the cost is something to consider. Dental veneers are typically not covered under insurance because they are cosmetic procedures. Payment plans offered by your dentist, however, may help with that.
Dental Veneers Last Longer
Teeth whitening is something you will have to keep up with relatively frequently, especially compared to how long your dental veneers should last. While teeth whitening might brighten your smile for a few years, veneers can last up to 15. If you want a long-term solution, veneers are the easy choice.
Teeth Whitening Is a Simpler Procedure
To have dental veneers, your natural teeth will need to be permanently reshaped. This is a far more significant commitment than teeth whitening asks of you. Teeth whitening is non-invasive and can be performed in various ways. Your dentist will discuss the best option for you.
Dental Veneers Can Be Effective Where Whitening Is Not
There are certain forms of staining and tooth discoloration that teeth whitening simply can’t address. If you want a bright white smile when you’ve got that more persistent staining, veneers may be your only option.
Speak with Your Dentist to Learn More
If you are unsure which procedure will be best for you, speak with your dentist. They’ll help assess your cosmetic issues to find the best solution.
Veneers and Teeth Whitening in Albion
If you want to address cosmetic issues with your teeth, contact Albion Family Dental today to schedule an appointment, or give us a call at 585-589-9044. We’ll do everything possible to help you get the smile you’ve always wanted.
Sources:
[1] https://crest.com/en-us/oral-care-tips/adult/what-is-cosmetic-dentistry-costs-types