Dental Veneers Vs Teeth Whitening
Paradise Valley, AZ
 Your teeth play a significant role in the appearance of your smile. Teeth are naturally a bright white color. However, there are many factors that can cause them to become dull and discolored, including what you eat and drink, smoking and other tobacco products, and even aging. When your teeth become dull and discolored, the quality of your smile suffers significantly. Fortunately, your bright white smile can be restored. At David R. Moyer, DDS, we can improve your smile with veneers or teeth whitening in Paradise Valley.
What are Veneers?
Veneers are a cosmetic restoration that can be used to eliminate the appearance of many different dental flaws, including discoloration. They are thin, shell-like restorations that are made from porcelain. Made from impressions of your mouth, they are designed to be bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth, effectively covering over and eliminating flaws.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a treatment specifically designed to eliminate stains from your teeth. There are two ways in which this can be done, either in the office or in the comfort of your own home. The treatment involves the use of a specially formulated gel that is applied to the surfaces of your teeth. As the active ingredient in the gel breaks down, it forms small oxygen bubbles that enter into your enamel to bleach away stains.
Which Option is Right for Me?
There are benefits and drawbacks to both veneers and teeth whitening. Veneers provide a long-lasting solution. The porcelain material is stain-resistant, able to resist stains from foods, beverages, and even cigarettes. While stain-resistant, though, they are not stain-proof. With proper care, veneers can last 15 to 20 years or more. However, while they provide a long-term solution, placing veneers requires that a small amount of tooth enamel is removed. This is done to ensure that your veneers fit perfectly in place in your mouth and look completely natural. To remove the enamel, a local anesthetic is required. A second appointment is also needed to fit your veneers and bond them into place.
With teeth whitening, you have two options. One option is an in-office procedure that requires only one appointment and an hour of your time. You can also whiten your teeth from the comfort of your own home with whitening trays. Treatment with whitening trays typically takes between one to two weeks depending upon the severity of your staining. Regardless of which option you choose, whitening is completely non-invasive and painless.
One of the biggest issues caused by whitening is tooth sensitivity. Sensitivity is only temporary and dissipates once your treatment is complete. Sensitivity toothpaste can help to manage symptoms during your treatment. While whitening is effective, the results are not permanent. Over time, your teeth can become stained again. There are things that you can do, however, to help ensure that the results last as long as possible. Typically, with proper care, results can last about 2 years or so.
Questions about Veneers & Teeth Whitening?
Both veneers and teeth whitening are very effective options for eliminating stains from your teeth, giving you back your bright white smile and boosting your confidence. For more information, and to find out which option is right for you, call David R. Moyer, DDS at 480.935.6295 to schedule your Paradise Valley consultation today! |
