As you age, teeth can begin to lose their sparkle and shape. Though enamel is durable, it is also porous and can be affected by the foods and beverages you consume. If you drink dark-colored foods, such as red wine, coffee, black tea, or tomato-based products, you may notice teeth that are yellowy, grayish, or stained. Teeth can also develop stains from smoking and other lifestyle habits.
When your pearly whites don’t seem so bright anymore, it can prevent you from enjoying your smile to the fullest. Your smile is one of the first things others notice about you and we want to help you make sure yours has a positive influence. There are numerous cosmetic dentistry solutions available, but two of the more popular are teeth whitening and dental veneers. Deciding which one is best for you will depend on your specific imperfections and cosmetic goals.
Dr. Matthew Bridges provides both teeth whitening and dental veneers at our Duncan, OK practice and will help you decide which one is right for you through a personalized consultation. To book your appointment, contact us today online or call (580) 255-4880.
When Teeth Whitening is Best
When staining and discoloration are centralized to the outer surface of your teeth, but you are happy with the overall shape and symmetry of your smile, professional teeth whitening may be the right choice for you. The whitening agents used in these treatments are stronger and more effective than store-bought options. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we offer both in-office whitening and take-home whitening depending on how fast you want results. Our Zoom® whitening in-office treatment can lighten teeth by up to eight shades and deliver results in under an hour, making it an ideal solution for individuals who have a wedding, class reunion, or special event to attend.
If time is not a concern, Dr. Bridges can provide you with custom-made trays and whitening gel that can be used together in the comfort of your home. Trays should be worn at least 30 minutes a day, or can even be worn overnight. In about one to two weeks you will enjoy a brighter smile.
How Dental Veneers Can Transform Your Smile
Teeth can also change in color from certain genetic factors or medications taken. Overexposure to fluoride or the consumption of tetracycline can affect the underlying layers of your teeth, causing them to appear gray. These types of stains are generally intrinsic and difficult to treat with just professional teeth whitening. When intrinsic staining is the cause of your flawed teeth, you will benefit more from dental veneers.
Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain custom-made to bond to the front surface of your teeth. Because they are designed to completely cover your natural teeth, they make a great option to concealing teeth that are stained and damaged through injury or normal wear and tear. Dental veneers have often been referred to instant orthodontics for their ability to reveal a straight and near-perfect smile. Because the dental veneer process requires enamel alteration before placement, it is considered a permanent treatment.
Which Cosmetic Treatment is Right for You?
We invite you in to meet with Dr. Bridges so he can help you decide whether teeth whitening or dental veneers would be better suited for you. Contact our Duncan, OK practice today online or by calling (580) 255-4880 to schedule your consult.
