Teeth see no small amount of use over the course of the years, and they can be exposed to many things that aren’t great for their appearance. Foods, drinks, medicines, smoking, and age can cause teeth to lose their pearliness, and the wear and tear can begin to show after a while. Fortunately, cosmetic dental procedures can allow many patients to achieve a whiter, more youthful smile. Here are some of the differences between teeth whitening treatments and porcelain veneers to help you get an idea if either of them might be right for you.
How Do Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments Work?
The shelves in many grocery stores and pharmacies offer a selection of teeth whitening products to shoppers. While some of these kits and toothpastes can be fairly effective, professional treatments from your dentist can provide you with superior results. These services come in the form of in-office treatments and take-home kits.
In-office treatments can be completed in about an hour and involve your dentist applying a few coats of professional-grade whitening agent to your teeth. Take-home kits, on the other hand, include customized dental trays and concentrated whitening gel. All you would have to do is apply the gel to the trays and wear them over your teeth for an hour every day for two weeks. These treatments can leave your teeth up to ten shades whiter.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
If teeth have extensive chips, cracks, gaps, or stains that do not respond to teeth whitening, porcelain veneers may be used to cover up the damage and leave your teeth looking amazing. Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain that are designed to cover damaged teeth. These shells are designed to mimic the appearance of real teeth, allowing a patient to have a completely transformed smile in as few as two appointments.
While both teeth whitening and porcelain veneers can be fantastic ways to beautify your smile, which one is the best option for you depends on your dental situation. Consulting with your dentist will allow them to make an educated recommendation as to whether either of these options will best suit your needs.
About the Practice
Salt Run Family Dentistry offers top-quality dental care in St. Augustine, FL. Led by Drs. Mickey Leth and Bert Tavary, the staff loves providing patients with oral health treatments that deliver remarkable results. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry such as porcelain veneers and teeth whitening. For more information on how cosmetic dentistry can make your smile look its best, contact the office online or dial (904) 824-3540.