Dental enhancements are a wonderful way to update and take a drab, dull smile to dazzling bright. There are many ways to achieve a new look, but it is critically important to make these changes in the correct order. Teeth whitening should be the first step to consider when looking at the need for any restoration work to be done.
Porcelain is a great material and provides many different ways to improve your smile. And it is stain resistant. But it also will not respond to teeth whitening products. When considering permanent restorations such as dental veneers, crowns, dental implants … if whitening is in your future, it should definitely come first.
Teeth whitening is available in a variety of programs and pricing. The products available over the counter or on the internet promise the same results you can achieve with in professional whitening in the dental office. But there are drawbacks to acquiring teeth whitening from anyone but your cosmetic dentist.
The whitening products available through your dentist are the most powerful available since they are being dispensed by a dental professional. Also, you have an educated dental staff available to address any questions or concerns you may have prior to starting or during your whitening program.
If you select Zoom! in-office teeth whitening, you will likely have your teeth cleaned first followed by a dental exam to make sure you are a good candidate for teeth whitening.
During your whitening appointment, the staff will take special care to segregate soft oral and gum tissues to prevent coming in contact with the whitening gel. A special laser is used to expedite the process. In a brief session, your teeth could be lightened up to eight shades.
If you wish to whiten your teeth at home, take-home whitening kits are also available.
Whichever method you choose, you should reach your desired teeth shade before pursuing veneers (or any type of porcelain restoration). Your dentist can better match your newly whitened teeth to the veneers so when placed you will have a bright, even smile.
If veneers are placed first and then you whiten, only your untreated teeth would lighten giving you an unsatisfactory result.
Once teeth whitening is complete and porcelain veneers are cemented in place, you will likely need to touch up your whitening from time to time to maintain an even appearance.
To learn more about your cosmetic dental options, contact Family Smiles Dental Group at 972-539-0608 and schedule your informative consultation today.