A bright and confident smile can do wonders for you: it can open new doors, heighten self-regard, and impress others. But if your teeth are not as white or perfect as you wish, perhaps you could consider cosmetic dental treatments.
Of all the possible cosmetic treatments worldwide, teeth whitening and smile makeover are two of the most well-known. Both aim to enhance smiles, yet they have different intents and needs.
So, how do you determine which one is right for you? Would you like a quick fix with teeth whitening, or do you need something more comprehensive, like a full-on smile makeover? Here is a comprehensive comparison.
What You Need to Know About Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is among the simplest and least expensive ways to improve one’s smile. Essentially, whitening involves lightening the color of teeth, either by removing surface stains or by dissolving discoloration.
How does it work?
Whitening can be achieved in several ways:
- Over-the-counter whitening kits, which can be purchased at the drug store, include strips, whitening toothpaste, and gels.
- Professional in-office whitening done by a dentist allows for quick and dramatic teeth whitening.
- Laser whitening treatment speeds up the whitening process using laser technology.
Benefits of Teeth Whitening
- Fast-zoom results instant-either overnight or in a period of one hour-a treatment may just work wonders in brightening the smile of a truly deserving individual.
- Non-invasive- there will be no noisy drills and, in most cases, no actual surgery outside teeth whitening.
- Cost-wise, one of the cheapest of the lot in regard to cosmetic treatments
- Perfect for stain removal- working on dime-sized stains from coffee, tea, cigarette smoke, and, of course, aging.
Best For Whom?
- If your teeth are healthy but stained.
- For quick and cheap smile enhancement.
- People with crowns or deep stain restorations may not benefit much from whitening.
What is meant by Smile Makeover?
The smile makeover is more than just any whitening; it’s a comprehensive array of treatments, from cosmetic to restorative dental treatment, that create an ideal smile.
What is included in a Smile Makeover?
- Teeth whitening – To bring brighter and whiter smiles.
- Veneers – These are thin porcelain shells that cover imperfections like stains and chips.
- Dental bonding – It repairs minor cracks and gaps with tooth-colored resin.
- Orthodontics – Braces or Invisalign for correction of misaligned teeth.
- Gum contouring – Reshapes the gumline for a more symmetrical appearance.
Who needs a smile makeover?
People needing a smile makeover have:
- Severely stained or discolored teeth that do not respond to whitening treatments.
- Chipped, cracked, or uneven teeth.
- Gaps or misalignment in their smiles.
- Multiple concerns about their teeth that require a holistic remedy.
If you’re looking for a smile makeover in Hutchinson KS, consulting with a professional cosmetic dentist can help you determine the best treatment plan for your unique smile.
Key Differences Between Teeth Whitening and Smile Makeover
If you need anything from teeth whitening to smile makeovers, what is most suited for you will depend on your ideal dental profile and what you want to achieve. Here is how they differ:
- Purpose: Teeth whitening brightens teeth; a smile makeover transforms an entire mouth, including whitening and other treatments.
- Time: Teeth whitening can sometimes be completed in a single visit or over several weeks. Depending on the procedure, a smile makeover may take weeks, if not several months.
- Cost: Teeth whitening is inexpensive, while a smile makeover is counted as an investment in a long-lasting transformation.
- The finality of time: Whitening promises results lasting anywhere between several months to a year, depending upon maintenance. Whereas makeovers grant results that last longer, as in the case of veneers and orthodontic work.
- Fitting: Teeth can be whitened with stains but do not need other interventions. A smile makeover is recommended if you have chipped teeth or some misaligned or missing teeth.
Still unsure?
Think about these questions:
- I just want something that will get my teeth whiter without really changing anything structurally. → Teeth whitening.
- I’ve got chipped, uneven, or missing teeth that affect my confidence.→ Smile makeover.
- Quick and inexpensive treatment options are my main criteria.→ Teeth whitening.
- I’m looking at long-term changes and an extreme makeover.→ Smile makeover.
Both procedures- whitening and smile makeovers- will give you the confidence to show off your smile. If you are just concerned with stains and discoloration, teeth whitening will give you a fast, economical fix. But when you want a completely new smile, a smile makeover will give you customized, long-lasting results.
Whatever path you choose, it’s always a good decision to invest in your smile. So, are you ready to take the plunge? Set up a book an appointment to help figure out which treatment will fulfill your wish for the perfect smile!
