Differences Between Teeth Whitening and Porcelain Veneers

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry

Patients who are interested in enhancing the appearance of their teeth might wonder if teeth whitening or porcelain veneers would be a better choice to achieve a natural-looking, white smile. It is important to note the differences between these treatments to understand which could help patients smile with more confidence.

Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening procedures are a simple way to achieve a brighter, whiter smile. While proper dental hygiene protects the teeth against bacteria, certain foods and drinks can often leave teeth stained. One option for fighting tooth stains and discoloration is the GLO™ professional whitening treatment offered by Dr. Deb and Dr. Rob here at Bethesda Sedation Dentistry. During this in-office treatment, a special lip protectant and gingival barrier are first applied to protect soft tissues of the mouth. The whitening gel is then evenly brushed on, and a mouthpiece that emits heat and light energy to activate the gel is positioned around the teeth. This process is repeated three times and patients can expect vibrant results in 32 minutes. In addition to the in-office GLO™ treatment, our practice offers customized GLO™ teeth whitening trays for at-home use. This option enables patients to achieve their whitening goals from the comfort and convenience of their own homes.

Many of our patients find that professional teeth whitening provides exceptional results that surpass the capabilities of drugstore alternatives. However, one downside is that occasional touch-up treatments are often needed to maintain the desired shade of white. If seeking a more stain-resistant option with similar benefits, porcelain veneers may be something to consider.

Porcelain Veneers

If significant staining and/or discoloration is of concern, patients may want to inquire with Dr. Deb or Dr. Rob about porcelain veneers. During treatment, a thin, stain-resistant ceramic material is placed over each affected tooth with a durable cement. The ceramic shell can be color-tinted to enhance the teeth’s white appearance. In addition to concealing color imperfections, veneers can also correct worn down, chipped, misshapen, or misaligned teeth. This procedure is a bit more extensive than teeth whitening, but can be ideal for patients who wish to address more serious cosmetic issues and create beautiful symmetry amongst the teeth.

To further decide on which treatment is best, patients should reach out to our office to schedule an appointment. Through a dental examination and consultation, Dr. Deb or Dr. Rob can discuss both treatments in greater detail and answer any lingering questions, helping to identify the most appropriate technique for one’s specific needs and goals.