Posted: September 30, 2024
When considering a smile makeover, veneers are a popular choice for achieving a flawless look. If you're also thinking about teeth whitening, you may be wondering whether it's best to whiten your teeth before or after getting veneers. Understanding how these treatments work together can help you make the right decision for your smile goals. Dr. Scott Greenhalgh, a trusted dentist since 1996 at the Westwood Dental Group in Lakewood, has extensive expertise in cosmetic dentistry. As the founder of several dental study clubs, including the CHIEF Dental Study Club, he is dedicated to staying at the forefront of dental advancements to provide the best care for his patients.
Why Consider Teeth Whitening With Veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made porcelain shells. Dentists place them over the front of your teeth to improve their appearance. They are often used to correct issues like chipped, discolored, or misshapen teeth. While veneers provide a long-lasting, natural look, the color of your surrounding teeth still plays a key role in the overall appearance of your smile.
On the other hand, teeth whitening can brighten your natural teeth by several shades. It can give your smile a radiant, youthful look. If you’re planning to get veneers on only a few teeth, you’ll want the rest of your teeth to match in color. This is where whitening comes into play.
Whitening Before Veneers
Most dental professionals recommend whitening your teeth before getting veneers. Veneers are non-porous, meaning their color doesn’t change over time like natural teeth. If you whiten your teeth after getting veneers, only your natural teeth will lighten. It can create a mismatch between the veneers and the rest of your smile.
Whitening your teeth before the veneer process allows your dentist to match the shade of the veneers to your newly brightened teeth.
Once you have veneers, you can maintain their appearance with regular oral care, but whitening them isn’t possible. By whitening your teeth before the procedure, you ensure a seamless and harmonious result.
Whitening After Veneers
While whitening after veneers is possible for your natural teeth, it’s not the ideal approach. Veneers are designed to resist stains and discoloration, meaning their color won’t change. If you whiten after getting veneers, the surrounding teeth may become brighter than the veneers. They can cause an uneven appearance.
Book Your Dental Veneer Appointment in Lakewood, CO
If you’re considering teeth whitening and veneers, it’s best to whiten your teeth before your veneer procedure. It ensures that your veneers will match your brighter, whiter teeth, giving you a beautiful, cohesive smile. Ready for a smile transformation? Contact us at 303-988-9060 and schedule a consultation with Scott Greenhalgh, DDS.
