I’ve been really wanting to improve my smile. My teeth and gums are healthy, but they’re also starting to show their age. I wanted to get a complete smile makeover. I do know enough to know it takes a skilled cosmetic dentist to do porcelain veneers. I found a great one who was recommended on a cosmetic dentistry site I like. Sadly, the price he quoted was way over my budget. I am going to take a step down and (for now) just get them whitened. I noticed my family dentist offers teeth whitening and the cost is very reasonable. Is this something any dentist can do or do I need to see someone with cosmetic expertise?

Sara

Dear Sara,

Getting your teeth whitened is completely different than getting porcelain veneers. Any family dentist should be able to do it. While it’s not the complete smile makeover you’d hoped for, you will find your smile is dramatically improved.

Teeth whitening will take years off your appearance. It will bring you fresh confidence and you’ll find yourself smiling much more. There are two types of teeth whitening, both of which I discuss on my website.

The biggest difference is the time it takes to get them the color you want. At-home whitening is slightly more affordable but can take several weeks to get to the level of whiteness you want. In-office whitening costs slightly more but your teeth will get as white as they’re able in just one appointment.

This blog is brought to you by Ahwatukee Dentist Dr. Harveer Kaur.