When to Choose Porcelain Veneers Over Teeth Whitening for Whiter Teeth

Are you looking for the best cosmetic treatment to achieve whiter teeth? Teeth whitening is the go-to procedure for many people who want to brighten their smiles and eliminate stains on their teeth. However, it isn't the only option. Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain shells permanently placed over natural teeth to hide stains and imperfections. There are cases where veneers offer better results than teeth whitening. Therefore, if you are dealing with the dental issues below, you should choose porcelain veneers over teeth whitening treatments.

Intrinsic discolouration

Tooth stains can either be extrinsic or intrinsic. Extrinsic stains occur on the outer layer of the enamel. They are caused by red wine, tea, coffee, dark sauces and soft drinks, curry and tobacco products. Extrinsic stains are easy to remove using teeth whitening treatments. Conversely, intrinsic stains occur in the inner layer of the tooth. They are caused by dental injury, overexposure to fluoride, and medication.

Intrinsic stains do not respond to whitening treatments. Therefore, porcelain veneers are an excellent choice for brightening your smile. Thin porcelain shells are placed over the teeth to cover the stained enamel. If you only have one or a few teeth with intrinsic stains, you can use both veneers and whitening treatments. First, whiten the teeth to your preferred shade, then match the veneers to the natural teeth to achieve a uniform look.

Weak or eroded enamel

Enamel erosion occurs when the outer layer of the teeth wears out due to damage by harmful bacteria, poor oral hygiene, or the consumption of acidic foods and drinks. Using teeth whitening gels and strips regularly can also weaken the enamel. Instead, explore other options that won't cause further damage to the natural teeth. Porcelain veneers allow you to alter the colour of the teeth without exposing them to corrosive bleach.

Minor dental misalignment

Teeth whitening treatment is great for removing stains. However, that's all it can do. If your stained teeth have minor misalignment, you still have to live with the cosmetic flaws. Veneers not only hide stains but also fix minor dental misalignment. Therefore, if your teeth are slightly crooked, you don't need to get braces or aligners. You can use porcelain veneers to alter the shape of the teeth and make them appear straight. 

Cracks or gaps in the affected teeth

Cracks and gaps in the front teeth can ruin one's dental aesthetics. If your stained teeth have unappealing gaps or chips, opt for veneer treatment. Porcelain veneers can conceal cracks, chips and other surface imperfections on the enamel. Also, if you have small unsightly gaps, you don't need to get braces. Your dentist can design veneers that cover the gaps to give you an appealing smile.

Veneer treatment is an excellent option for achieving whiter teeth and fixing cosmetic flaws. Contact your dentist for further information about cosmetic dentistry.

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