If your teeth are starting to look yellow or stained, it can affect how others view you–and, most importantly, how you view yourself. Aging, trauma, smoking, diet, and more can cause teeth to become dull and discolored. Two popular cosmetic treatments that transform teeth are dental veneers and professional teeth whitening. Both treatments can make smiles appear more radiant, but which one is more suitable for you?
Type of Staining
Extrinsic dental staining is superficial and affects the outermost layer of the tooth (enamel). While there are many whitening treatments, most chairside professional whitening treatments claim to lift multiple shades of extrinsic stains in a single session.
Although teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatment, it does not work on all types of stains. Intrinsic stains affect the inner layer of the tooth and are the deepest type of discoloration. Overexposure to fluoride, use of tetracycline, and oral trauma can permanently and deeply stain teeth. Because intrinsic staining does not respond to tooth whitening treatments and is more challenging to treat, we recommend porcelain veneers to camouflage this type of staining.
Longevity
When maintained, professional teeth whitening solutions can last between a few months to a few years. Consistent brushing and flossing at least twice per day (and after meals) can prevent tooth decay and gum disease and help keep teeth their whitest. Between whitening treatments, some patients add a whitening toothpaste to their regular dental hygiene routines. However, some factors can contribute to yellowing the teeth more quickly:
- Eating foods or drinking beverages with staining agents (such as foods dyed with food coloring, wine, or dark-colored soft drinks)
- Smoking cigarettes, vaping, or chewing tobacco
With proper care, traditional porcelain veneers typically last between 10 to 15 years. Dental veneers are strong, but they are not invincible. Here are some precautions to take to ensure that the results stay as long as possible:
- Avoid chewing on hard objects and foods (such as fingernails, ice, or hard candy)
- Eat and chew with the back teeth (avoid using the front teeth during mealtimes)
- Do not use teeth as tools (for opening packaging)
- If you have the habit of grinding your teeth at night, ask your dentist about nightguards.
- If you are active or playing contact sports, protect your teeth and veneers by wearing a mouthguard.
Cost
Comparing the cost of dental veneers and teeth whitening is like comparing apples and oranges. Even though they both veneers and whitening can be used to treat staining, that’s where the similarities end. Veneers can solve more issues than whitening, including:
- Chipped teeth
- Small teeth
- Worn enamel
- Unevenness
- Spacing
With these factors in mind and the fact that veneers require more material, it’s not shocking that veneers are more expensive than teeth whitening:
- Porcelain veneers cost between $925 and $2,500 per tooth
- Teeth whitening treatments range in cost, but some dentists offer discounts
It’s also important to note that dental veneers and teeth whitening are not covered by insurance because they are considered cosmetic procedures.
Elevate Your Smile Dental Veneers and Teeth Whitening
In conclusion, dental veneers and teeth whitening are excellent options for improving smiles. Veneers are a long-term solution for covering deep-set stains and other cosmetic issues. In contrast, professional teeth whitening is ideal for patients who want an affordable, instant method to lift external stains. For a more dramatic smile makeover, dentists can safely whiten their teeth before applying veneers for a Hollywood smile transformation.
At Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale helps patients with healthy teeth and gums decide which cosmetic dentistry techniques fit their smiles goals. To discuss dental veneers, teeth whitening, and other cosmetic dental options, call (512) 346-4690 or message us online today.
