Should You Get Teeth Whitening or Veneers?

Chesapeake Bay blue crab or Virginia oysters? Country ham biscuits or Brunswick stew? Crocs or clogs? Okay, sometimes having choices can go too far, but generally in life, it’s great to have options. Your teeth can become dull or discolored for many reasons. Regardless, two excellent treatments to consider for getting your smile back on track with your cosmetic dentist in Abingdon are teeth whitening or veneers. Keep reading about these options to see what problems they can solve, what the procedure entails for each one, how long they last, and a cost comparison.

What Issues Can Teeth Whitening and Veneers Address?

Teeth whitening is most effective for removing yellowing and stains caused by foods and beverages. Gray or brown discoloration is more difficult for bleaching to address, so veneers may be the option for those or other stubborn stains. Veneers can also fix many other problems like chipped or cracked teeth, uneven spacing and gaps, and slightly crooked teeth.

What Does the Procedure for Teeth Whitening Entail?

After the dentist cleans and examines the teeth, they will address any decay issues or cavities. From there, a bleaching agent is applied and left on for a while, removed, and then reapplied. The entire process takes about one hour, but multiple visits are usually needed to achieve desired results. In-office whitening is typically quicker with more consistent results compared to at-home methods.

What About the Procedure for Veneers?

Getting veneers is a more invasive procedure than teeth whitening. Once your dentist confirms your teeth are healthy, they will remove a sliver of the enamel. While the permanent veneers are being made in a lab, you’ll be given a temporary set. Once they are ready, the veneers will be bonded directly to your teeth. The entire process can take several hours and multiple appointments.

How Long Do These Treatments Last?

Teeth whitening could bring instant results, but it doesn’t last forever. Teeth that have been professionally whitened may need to have the process repeated after a few years.

Veneers can last more than 15 years. Although strong, they aren’t indestructible. Composite veneers are more likely to be repaired than replaced but remember that veneers are a permanent decision.

What About the Financial Aspect of Teeth Whitening and Veneers?

These two choices can both eliminate discoloration in your smile, but that’s where the similarity ends. Veneers can solve many more issues, plus they are a long-term, custom-made solution. Because of this, veneers are often the more expensive option.

If price is the main factor or you do not want any enamel removed, teeth whitening in Abingdon is the way to go. Veneers essentially win out in all other respects, but you should definitely have a discussion with your cosmetic dentist before your final decision!

About the Author

Dr. Steven Amburgey earned his dental doctorate from West Virginia University and he’s a member of the American Dental Association. If you are interested in veneers, Dr. Amburgey has been performing cosmetic treatments for 15 years, and he can show you what your upgrade will look like via a Virtual Smile Design preview. He also offers KOR teeth whitening via in-office treatment or a take-home kit. Schedule a consultation on his website or call (276) 258-5568.