Porcelain veneers and teeth whitening are two of the more commonly requested treatments in cosmetic dentistry. While both involve working with the teeth to create a more uniform colour, how that result is achieved – and who each treatment is suitable for – varies quite a bit.
In this blog, we’ll go through how porcelain veneers and teeth whitening actually work, what to expect during each treatment process, how long the results tend to last, and how the procedures are typically approached.
What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin shells that are made to fit over the front surface of your natural teeth.
They’re not typically placed over every tooth in the mouth – usually, they’re applied to the front six to eight upper teeth, since these are the teeth that are most visible when talking or smiling.
To place veneers, the surface of each tooth needs to be slightly prepared, which usually involves removing a small amount of enamel. This gives the veneer space to sit comfortably. It also helps it adhere more securely to the tooth.
The veneer is then bonded in place, and the result is a fixed, long-term covering that isn’t removed except by a dentist.
Since a certain amount of enamel is permanently removed, porcelain veneers are not reversible. Once they’re done, they will need to be maintained and eventually replaced.
How teeth whitening works
Teeth whitening is entirely focused on lightening the shade of your teeth and lifting stains – which doesn’t involve altering the structure of your teeth.
Instead, it uses a carefully formulated gel that’s applied directly to the teeth to break down stains. These gels can be used in-clinic or at home with custom trays.
In-chair whitening tends to produce faster results. The treatment can usually be completed in one visit, with the gel applied under controlled conditions, often with a light or heat source to activate the bleaching process.
Take-home whitening trays require a longer commitment, as the gel is used over a series of days or weeks, but it allows more flexibility and can sometimes be a better option for those who have more sensitive teeth.
Essentially, whitening won’t change the structure or shape of your teeth and doesn’t involve bonding anything to them – it only affects the colour of the teeth.
Who porcelain veneers may be suitable for
Porcelain veneers are often considered when the natural teeth are structurally intact but have surface flaws that can’t be addressed by whitening alone.
This could include irregularities in shape, minor misalignment, wear, or longstanding discolouration that doesn’t respond to whitening gels.
Some patients also consider veneers if they have small gaps between their teeth or if the enamel is naturally thin or uneven. Since veneers act as a physical covering, they can mask these types of issues in a way that whitening can’t.
However, veneers aren’t suitable for every situation. If the teeth are heavily decayed or have significant structural damage, other options like crowns may be more appropriate. If there’s active gum disease or untreated dental concerns, these will also need to be addressed first.
What to expect during the veneer process
Getting porcelain veneers typically involves two or more appointments. At the first appointment, your dentist will assess your teeth, take scans or impressions, and prepare the teeth by removing a small layer of enamel. Temporary veneers are usually placed over the teeth while the permanent ones are being made.
At the next appointment, the permanent veneers are bonded in place. Your dentist will check the fit and appearance before cementing them, and once they’re attached, they function much like normal teeth – although you’ll need to avoid habits like biting directly into very hard foods.
What to expect with teeth whitening
For in-chair whitening, your gums are protected with a barrier, and the gel is applied to the teeth in stages. Each application stays on for around 15 to 20 minutes and may be repeated multiple times during the session. You might feel a tingling or sensitivity while the gel is active, but this tends to pass soon after the appointment.
With at-home whitening trays, you’ll be given custom-fitted trays and the whitening gel to use over a set number of days. Depending on the type of gel and the strength, you might wear the trays for 30 minutes to a few hours at a time. You’ll usually start seeing gradual changes within a few days.
Not all teeth respond to whitening equally, and existing dental work like fillings or crowns won’t change colour. That’s why teeth whitening is often done before things like veneers or bonding, so the shade of the restoration can be matched to the newly whitened enamel.
How long the results last for each type of treatment
Porcelain veneers can last quite a long time, generally between 10 to 15 years, depending on the material used and how well they’re cared for. They don’t discolour in the same way as natural teeth, but the edges where the veneer meets the tooth can stain if oral hygiene isn’t maintained.
Teeth whitening results are more variable and tend to be shorter term. Whitening can last several months to a couple of years, but it depends heavily on what you eat and drink. Tea, coffee, red wine, and smoking can all cause stains to return more quickly. Touch-up treatments, either at home or in-clinic, are often recommended to maintain the results.
Veneers and teeth whitening: Discuss your cosmetic dental treatment options at Oasis Dental Studio in the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Pottsville or Melbourne
Whether you’re interested in having treatment with porcelain veneers or having a teeth whitening treatment session, the first step is to contact our team to discuss your options.
A consultation at Oasis Dental Studio will allow one of our experienced cosmetic dentists to ask about your aesthetic goals and assess the health of your teeth. They will then be able to discuss your preferred treatment option and create a tailored plan.
At Oasis, we don’t just focus on aesthetics when performing your cosmetic dental treatments – we will also consider the structure of your teeth and how your treatment can influence your dental health in the longer term.
Please contact our team today to book your consultation in the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne or Pottsville.
