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Greenwich Family Dental

Teeth Whitening vs. Porcelain Veneers

A man pointing left and right, with his arms crossed so that he looks whimsical. He is looking at the camera with his eyebrows raised.

On the surface, teeth whitening treatment and porcelain veneers appear to be options that provide very different kinds of dental enhancements; however, there can be some overlap between them. Porcelain veneers are often used to improve signs of mild misalignment or chips and gaps between the teeth, but they can even act as a teeth whitening treatment in some cases. Traditional teeth whitening options solely focus on brightening your teeth and reducing signs of yellowing and discoloration. Continue reading to learn more about the differences between both of these exceptional dental solutions.

Teeth Whitening: Teeth whitening treatment can be ideal for those who want to enhance the appearance of their smile and “refresh” their teeth. Over time, the teeth can take on signs of discoloration and staining, even after years of proper oral care. Teeth whitening procedures are often able to lighten the color of teeth by several shades, providing great results after just one treatment session. With that in mind, professional teeth whitening results will not typically last years into the future, and occasional “touch-up” sessions are often necessary to maintain the outcome. Additionally, for particularly severe discoloration or staining, traditional teeth whitening options may not be enough. In those cases, porcelain veneers may be recommended.

Porcelain Veneers: Porcelain veneers are custom restorations designed to conceal dental imperfections. They can be placed over the front and sides of the teeth to cover signs of deep stains and discoloration—conditions for which conventional teeth whitening may not be able to fully address. The porcelain material used for veneers can be color-tinted to provide a whiter and more refreshed look. Porcelain veneers are incredibly durable and can last for decades as long as patients take good care of them and maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine.

In some cases, both teeth whitening and porcelain veneers may be recommended to achieve the healthiest and freshest smile aesthetic possible. At your initial consultation, our team will be able to examine your teeth and determine which treatment presents the most ideal solution for your needs and goals. If you would like to learn more about teeth whitening treatment, porcelain veneers, or any of our other advanced dental services, please contact our practice today!