What you should consider when comparing teeth whitening to veneers

If you’re regularly buying toothpaste that promises to make your teeth whiter, you’re probably not happy with the colour of your teeth. You’re also not alone, after all, that’s why that toothpaste exists!

However, while whitening toothpaste can prevent your teeth from getting more discoloured or darker, it’s unlikely to increase their whiteness noticeably.

When it comes to brightening your smile there are two popular options: teeth whitening and veneers. Both can be quite effective although sometimes one or the other is more suitable for a particular individual. 

Let’s take a look at how these two solutions could help you achieve your dream smile, particularly if you’ve celebrated a few birthdays and are looking for a significant smile rejuvenation.

 

Whitening can be problematic for sensitive teeth

Teeth whitening is often seen as the go-to option for a relatively fast and simple smile boost. However, the bleaching agents can irritate teeth, so you should get your teeth assessed before opting for a teeth-whitening treatment. 

A dentist can also advise whether there are any other potential issues that could prevent teeth whitening from being as effective as you would like, including your dietary habits, the impact of any regular medications, and the condition of your teeth.

 

Teeth whitening is a short-term solution

While teeth whitening can certainly add a sparkle to your smile, keep in mind that it’s not a permanent fix. The impact of any whitening process will have a limited lifespan and will, therefore, fade over time. Your diet and oral hygiene habits will naturally impact the length of time that your teeth remain noticeably white and bright. 

It’s also important to understand that the one-size-fits-all products you can buy from the chemist are very different from the treatment your dentist is able to provide.

 

It takes some effort to keep whiter teeth white

While using a teeth-whitening kit or having a professional dental whitening treatment can make a noticeable difference to your smile, these processes do come with a catch. The whiter your teeth, the harder it is to maintain that shade, as discolouration is almost inevitable.

To keep your teeth looking white and bright, you’ll need to be mindful of what you eat and drink. Coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, and some foods will stain teeth, sometimes in only a matter of days. Smoking is another big no-no if you want to maintain that bright smile.

If you’ve had your teeth whitened, it becomes even more imperative that you thoroughly brush and floss at least twice a day, as any build-up of plaque will gradually dull your newly acquired whiteness.

 

Maintaining white teeth comes at a cost

While a single treatment or maintenance product won’t break the bank, repeating the process does start to add up. Depending on your dietary habits and diligence with your oral care regimen, it’s only a matter of time before you’ll need another professional teeth-whitening session.

When considering the financial aspect of teeth whitening you need to take into account the long-term costs of regular treatments.

 

Veneers offer a permanent path to a stunning smile

At Middleborough Dental Care we have been providing teeth-whitening treatment for many years. It’s a great solution for improving your appearance if you have healthy teeth and good oral care habits.

However, if you’re looking for a smile makeover that will improve the shape and colour of your teeth, veneers offer a more lasting solution than a whitening treatment. Veneers are essentially custom-made shells designed to sit snugly on the front surface of your teeth. Because they are custom-made, we can be very particular about both their shape and colour.

Veneers sidestep many of the issues associated with teeth whitening. Once they’re in place, they require far less upkeep, and they cause no issues for anyone with sensitive teeth. 

Plus, they’re a one-time investment that can last decades, making them a financially savvy choice in the long run.

 

We can help you decide what’s right for you

Everyone is different and we don’t think you should make a decision on what’s best for you without weighing up all the pros and cons. Deciding between teeth whitening and veneers is a personal choice that hinges on various factors, including your dental health, aesthetic goals, and budget. 

If you’re looking for a major cosmetic upgrade that’s both durable and low-maintenance, veneers are a great alternative to traditional teeth whitening treatments.

On the other hand, if you’re happy with the shape of your teeth and you’re looking for a more budget-conscious and temporary solution, a teeth-whitening treatment might be the way to go.

At Middleborough Dental Care we believe that nobody should feel awkward when they smile, nor should you feel uncomfortable discussing how your teeth could look better. We’re only too happy to take you through your options to restore your smile, so book an appointment today.