Do you need to have a radiant smile at all times? Are you hesitating between teeth whitening or dental veneers ? Indeed, these are two incredible methods to say goodbye to your yellow teeth and get a bright smile worthy of Hollywood stars! However, it is important to know that these two methods do not work in the same way.
Here's a guide comparing the two methods so you can find out which one is best for you.
Teeth whitening vs. dental veneers
Tooth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry treatment which aims to lighten the colour of the teeth by one or more shades. It also removes stains from the teeth for whiter teeth. Each patient's teeth are different, so the results obtained will vary from one patient to another. Dental veneers, on the other hand, are thin shells that are placed on the visible surface of the teeth to correct the aesthetics. They improve the colour, shape and positioning of the teeth, which can be improved with this cosmetic dentistry technique.
How tooth whitening works
The benefits of tooth whitening
Tooth whitening is useful for many reasons. It can be, for example, the abnormal shade of the teeth, a degeneration of the enamel shade or the desire to have whiter teeth to feel better in the company of others. All these reasons are valid. On the other hand, tooth whitening is also a good solution if you have yellow teeth. This yellowing can be caused by drinking tea, coffee or wine, which alters the colour of the teeth and attacks the tooth enamel. It is therefore difficult to restore the original colour of the teeth in any other way.
The results of tooth whitening are :
Superficial discolourations caused mainly by diet or age are easier to treat. They can be removed by scaling and polishing. Furthermore, yellow or beige shades are much easier to remove than brown or grey ones. The result of teeth whitening depends on your whitening treatment and the reactivity of your teeth. For example, some patients gain several shades within a few days. However, very often the desired results are visible within 2 to 3 weeks.
In-store teeth whitening kits
These tooth whitening kits are sold in shops at a price of between €15 and €60. They are available in pharmacies and drugstores. Three types of products are generally always included in these types of tooth whitening kits.
These are the different products contained in the kits sold:
- Hydrogen peroxide gel : This is used to apply the product to the teeth to be whitened.
- Transparent self-adhesive strips : These are coated with 6% hydrogen peroxide gel and take the shape of your teeth.
- Disposable trays : These optimise the contact between the whitening agents and the teeth.
However, it is important to know that these teeth whitening techniques can only achieve a good result if the staining of your teeth is due to your eating habits or age. In addition, they have a lower concentration of oxygen peroxide. They are therefore much less effective than dental bleaching. You should use them once or twice a day for 15 to 30 minutes for 14 days for 12 months.
You should make sure that the trays are perfectly adapted to the shape of your gums. If not, it may damage the pulp of your teeth.
Home tooth whitening techniques
When it comes to tooth whitening agents, there are various techniques, but nothing beats natural-coloured tooth whitening. It is perfect for your oral health as well as for having a nice smile and without risk for your teeth. If you are still hesitating about whether or not to use a highly effective tooth whitener to get a great smile, you can try out a few grandmotherly remedies in the meantime. The most common tooth whitening solution is to mix lemon juice or cider vinegar with sodium carbonate. You can also use charcoal powder instead of toothpaste. To get white teeth, you can use these tips or go directly to teeth whitening kits for a faster and more successful effect! However, there are several risks associated with these tooth whitening techniques, such as irritation and tooth sensitivity, or the aggravation of an existing dental problem, especially in the gums. It is therefore important to know that there is no miracle recipe for whiter teeth and the effectiveness of these methods relies on abrasive ingredients that can be damaging to the teeth. You should therefore consult your dentist to find out if there are any contraindications to using the whitening treatment of your choice.
If you are looking for a good toothbrush to complement your brushing, you can use the Y-Brush toothbrush. This is an effective toothbrush that brushes all the teeth and sides at the same time to give you white teeth in no time.
How dental veneers work
The usefulness of dental veneers
Dental veneers can remedy all your major aesthetic problems. They are an ideal option for enhancing your teeth. They have the advantage of being natural, quick and discreet. They allow you to avoid long and complex dental treatments.
They are designed according to your dental morphology but also to your aesthetic objectives.
They allow you to achieve the following aesthetic objectives
- perfect alignment of your teeth
- optimal whitening of your teeth
- modification of the shape of your teeth
- replacement of your dental crowns
- elimination of spaces between your teeth
Composite vs. ceramic dental veneers
Ceramic veneers are translucent veneers. They are manufactured in a specialised laboratory and are installed in 2 sessions. There is an appointment to take your impressions and assess the condition of your teeth and an appointment to install the veneers. They have a lifespan of 15 years which is different from composite veneers. They are much more natural looking. They do not stain or change colour. This is why they can be used as a substitute for tooth whitening. However, they are not very aesthetic. This is why they are placed on the hidden side of the teeth. They are also a more expensive option than white fillings.
On the other hand, composite veneers are used to correct problems such as broken teeth or teeth that are too short. It can also be used to correct small gaps between teeth, particularly in the molar and premolar areas. In this treatment, the dentist places a composite resin on your teeth, which is available in various shades of white. These are usually installed in one go. They are reversible and removable. This white filling is therefore a perfect choice to solve minor dental problems, quickly and simply. However, this treatment lasts 5 years. It is therefore less durable than a ceramic filling.
The various contraindications
Dental veneers are generally recommended for a large number of people. However, only an appointment with your dentist will tell you whether you can opt for this tooth whitening technique.
The following are the various contraindications to the application of dental veneers:
- Bruxism : You suffer from grinding and clenching of your teeth while sleeping.
- Periodontal disease : You have gingivitis or periodontitis which are particularly painful.
- Damaged teeth : You have breaks in one or more of your teeth.
- Tooth enamel problems : You have little or no enamel on your teeth.
However, as each case is unique, consider consulting a dentist for treatment tailored to your situation.
We hope this guide has helped you understand the specifics of teeth whitening and veneers. Which method is best for you depends solely on you and your whitening habits and desires. If you want more results for your teeth, it is best to use dental veneers.
