Are you considering boosting your smile’s beauty by getting veneers in Webster? Since veneers are one of the most popular treatments in cosmetic dentistry, you’re far from alone. However, one of the top concerns about veneers is whether they stain over time. Here’s what you should know about veneer staining and what you can do to prevent it.
Can Veneers Be Stained?
Tooth discoloration is the second most common complaint people have about their smiles, right behind misalignment.[1] Many people choose veneers to hide discolored tooth surfaces and revive their smiles. However, they also want to know whether stains may affect their veneers over time.
The answer depends largely on the type of veneers you have, as the material plays a key role in how easily they are stained.
Porcelain veneers are well known for their durability and beauty. Porcelain is a nonporous material, which makes it highly stain-resistant. While discoloration is possible, porcelain doesn’t readily absorb pigments from coffee, wine, or other foods that stain your natural teeth.[2]
Composite veneers provide a cost-effective alternative to porcelain, but their porous nature makes them more prone to staining. Like natural teeth, composite materials can absorb pigments and become discolored over time, making them more difficult to maintain if you want a flawlessly bright smile.
What Causes Veneer Stains?
While porcelain veneers don’t absorb pigments like natural teeth, they can still become discolored. Plaque buildup is one of the most prominent causes of veneer stains. Plaque is a layer of bacteria that forms on natural teeth and veneers, causing them to appear discolored. Thus, good and consistent oral hygiene can prevent this issue.
Cracks and chips in your veneers can also cause discoloration. These flaws allow pigments and other discoloring agents to seep beneath the thin veneers. If you experience gum recession, more of your tooth roots will become visible, which can leave a noticeable contrast with the shade of your veneers.
How to Brighten Veneers
Is it possible to whiten veneers that have become discolored? You can’t achieve results with the same teeth whitening treatment used for natural teeth. That process relies on a hydrogen peroxide whitening agent that penetrates porous enamel to remove stains. Unfortunately, this process does not affect porcelain dental veneers.
While composite veneers are more prone to staining, they are also easier to touch up. Your dentist can polish these veneers to remove a small amount of material, taking discoloration with it. Composite veneers are also more easily replaced if they suffer severe staining.
Maintenance Tips for Your Veneers
Good oral hygiene is the best way to maintain your veneers. Brush and floss twice daily to remove food particles and prevent bacteria accumulation. Make sure to use a soft-bristle toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching your veneers.
Avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks will also help you properly care for your veneers. Key examples include coffee, wine, berries, and acidic foods or beverages. At the very least, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after enjoying any of these staining foods.
Tobacco use not only poses a wide range of oral health risks but is also a major contributor to stains. Avoid smoking, chewing tobacco, and other types of tobacco use to improve your smile and protect both veneers and natural teeth.
Finally, keep up with routine visits to your dentist. Regular dental cleanings remove plaque deposits that discolor your teeth. Your dentist can also identify early warning signs of any issues with your veneers, allowing for effective prevention and intervention.
High-Quality Veneers in Webster
Following these simple tips can significantly affect how well you protect your veneers from stains.
The best tip for a brilliant smile is to start with high-quality veneers in the first place. If you’re curious about veneers or want to take better care of the ones you already have, Empire Dental Care can help. Reach out today at 585-671-1650 or contact us online for more about veneers in Webster.
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