Teeth Whitening or Veneers? How White Can Your Teeth Get?

If your smile looks duller or more yellow than it used to, professional teeth whitening is usually the first option you think of. How white your teeth can get depends on where they start, what's causing the color, and whether you're picturing a natural, brighter smile or a paper white one. This guide walks through how we help you choose between whitening, veneers, or a mix of both, so you know what's realistic before you spend anything.

How white can my teeth get with professional whitening?

Your teeth can get as white as their natural shade allows, and that range is different for everyone. That's why every whitening conversation with us starts with taking your shade. That one reading shows where your teeth are today and how much brighter they can realistically go.

Some patients have plenty of room to brighten, and whitening makes a big difference for them. Others are already near the top of the shade guide. Some patients ask for whitening gel to take home at every cleaning, and we're honest with them: "your teeth are probably as white as they're ever going to get." That's good news, because it means their smile is already in great shape.

Either way, you'll leave with a clear picture of what whitening can do for your teeth. We'd much rather you know that up front than be disappointed later.

Can yellow teeth be whitened?

Yes, yellow teeth usually respond well to whitening. According to the American Dental Association, yellow teeth will probably bleach well, brown teeth may not respond as well, and teeth with gray tones may not bleach at all. You can read more on the ADA's teeth whitening guide for patients.

That matches what we see in the chair: certain stains react better to whitening than others. When we look at your teeth together, we'll tell you what kind of discoloration you have and how much whitening can help it.

You won't have to take our word for it. Our intraoral cameras put your teeth on the screen, so you can see exactly what we're seeing and ask the questions that matter to you.

When are veneers a better fit than whitening?

Veneers can be a better fit when you want a brighter shade than your natural teeth can reach. If you're hoping for paper white teeth, natural teeth won't get there with whitening, and veneers may suit your goals better.

A veneer is a custom covering placed over the front of a tooth. The ADA explains that dental veneers can cover teeth that are stained, chipped or misshapen, and that the treatment is not reversible because some enamel is removed to place them. Because it's a lasting decision, we talk through your goals carefully before recommending veneers.

It also helps to know that whitening only works on natural teeth. The ADA notes that whitening won't change the color of caps, veneers, crowns or fillings. If you already have crowns or fillings on your front teeth, they'll keep their shade while your natural teeth brighten, so we'll plan around them with you.

Veneers aren't always the answer for a tooth you don't love. Dr. Bob likes to save as much natural tooth structure as possible, so when bonding can rebuild a chipped edge or reshape a tooth, we'll tell you.

Is there a downside to teeth whitening?

The most common downside is tooth sensitivity, and for most people it's temporary. The ADA notes that some people who use whiteners notice sensitivity, and it recommends talking with your dentist before you whiten, because whitening may not correct every type of discoloration.

The other downside is putting time and money into a result your teeth can't reach. Taking your shade first protects you from that. You'll know what's realistic for your teeth before you start, and if whitening isn't the right tool, we'll talk about what is.

Why do Newtown patients choose Dr. Bob Lantzy for whitening and veneers?

Patients choose us because Dr. Bob Lantzy starts with what bothers you about your smile. He'll hand you a mirror and say, "Show me what you're talking about." Then you work out the plan together.

Sometimes a small touch here and there is all it takes, and patients are thrilled. Sometimes the teeth aren't the issue at all: if your gum line is uneven, the gums need to match before the teeth can look right. For bigger changes, we can mock up your teeth so we're both picturing the same result before any work begins.

Dr. Bob has been practicing dentistry in Newtown for over 40 years. He's a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and is certified to place cosmetic veneers and bonding. You can see more about our cosmetic dentistry services in Newtown, PA, including whitening and veneers.

Curious how white your teeth can get? Call our Newtown dental office at (215) 860-5901 or send us a message through our contact page, and we'll start with your shade.

Published by Robert A. Lantzy, DMD (Bucks County Dental).