Veneers vs Whitening

Veneers vs Whitening:  Which is Right for You?

A bright, white smile is something many of us want-but how you achieve it depends on your goals.  Two of the most popular options are professional teeth whitening and porcelain veneers.  While both can improve the appearance of your smile, they work in very different ways.  Let's break it down so you can decide which might be the best choice for you.

Professional Teeth Whitening

Whitening is one of the simplest and most affordable cosmetic treatments available.  With professional whitening, stains caused by coffee, tea, red wine, or even aging can be lightened by several shades.

Best for you if:

• You're happy with the shape and alignment of your teeth.
• You just want a brighter, fresher look.
• You're okay with the touch-ups every so often to maintain results.

Things to know:  Whitening only changes the color of your teeth, not their shape or structure.  Deep stains may not respond well to whitening alone.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers go beyond whitening-they cover the front of your teeth with thin, custom-made porcelain shells.  Not only are they naturally bright and stain-resistant, but they can also change the size, shape, and overall look of your teeth.

Best for you if:

• You have discoloration that doesn't respond to whitening.
• You want to fix chips, gaps, or uneven teeth along with brightness.
• You're looking for a long-lasting comprehensive smile makeover.

Things to know:  Veneers require more of an investment than whitening, but they can completely transform your smile and typically last 20+ years with proper care.

Which Option Should You Choose?

If your main concern is dull or stained teeth, whitening may be all you need.  But if you want a complete smile transformation-including fixing chips, gaps or alignment issues-veneers are the better choice.

Final Thoughts

Both treatments can help you feel more confident about your smile.  The best way to know which one is right for you is to schedule a consultation.  Together, we can explore your goals and find the option that will give you the bright, confident smile you deserve.