Are you looking to brighten your pearly whites? You’re not alone! Many of us want a dazzling smile, but with different options to whiten teeth, it can be tough to know which way to go.
Today, let’s review three popular methods for teeth whitening: dental veneers, dental bonding, and teeth whitening treatments. We’ll look at the good and not-so-good sides of each, so you can figure out which one will work best for you.
Dental Veneers
These are custom-made shells of toothlike material that your dentist applies to the front of your teeth.
Advantages of veneers include:
- They are long-lasting. They can last at least 10-15 years with proper care.
- They can fix other issues like chips or gaps.
- They’ll give you dramatic results for severely stained teeth.
Possible disadvantages:
- They are the most costly option. You may spend a thousand dollars or more per tooth.
- Getting veneers is an irreversible process, since your dentist will remove a bit of your tooth enamel in preparation for the treatment.
- It typically takes at least two visits to our office to get veneers.
Dental Bonding
For this treatment, your dentist applies tooth-colored composite resin (the same material used for fillings) to your teeth to hide discoloration, then dries it with a special light.
Pros of bonding include:
- It is more affordable than veneers.
- Depending on the number of teeth, it can be done in one visit.
- Bonding can fix small imperfections on your teeth, along with whitening.
Possible cons:
- Bonding won’t last as veneers (usually 3-10 years).
- Bonding material can stain over time.
- This treatment might not look as natural as veneers.
Teeth Whitening Treatment
For teeth whitening, your dentist will supply you with professional-strength whitening gel and easy-to-use trays that you take home with you to whiten on your own schedule.
The benefits of whitening include:
- It’s the most affordable option.
- Whitening treatments are non-invasive. No changes to your tooth structure are needed.
Possible downsides:
- Your results won’t last as long. You will need touch-ups to maintain your bright smile.
- Products can cause temporary tooth sensitivity, although it typically is short-lived. Our professional products tend to cause less sensitivity than drugstore products.
- Whitening doesn’t work on all types of stains. More stubborn stains will require bonding or veneers. Still, you might prefer to start with whitening first before looking at other methods.
So, which whitening method is right for you? It really depends on your budget, how much time you want to spend, and what kind of results you’re after. If you’re dealing with major stains or other tooth issues, veneers might be your best bet. For minor touch-ups and whitening, bonding could be the way to go. And if you’re just looking for a brighter smile without breaking the bank, teeth whitening treatments might be perfect.
Remember, your dentist can help you make the decision that’s best for you. We’ll take a look at your specific situation and help you choose the best option for your smile.
To make an appointment, call Willes Dental at 760-576-2214 in Encinitas, CA or 760-477-0338 in Escondido.