Dental veneers are a popular treatment that can help give many people a more beautiful smile. Many people find these artificial shells for teeth a reasonably easy way to get uniform teeth and the specific look they have always wanted. However, they require very specific care to ensure they remain as brilliantly white as they start out. Teeth whitening treatments and other cosmetic options are not effective at removing stains from veneers. Instead, patients will have to take a different approach to maintain white teeth with this dental work.
Tooth enamel can stain easily over time, especially without proper routine care. In addition, certain people may be more prone to tooth discoloration because of their genetics or lifestyle choices. Professional teeth whitening can be used to remove stains for a whiter and more aesthetically pleasing smile. Even at-home products such as strips, gels, or toothpaste can help people enjoy brighter teeth.
Professional teeth whitening treatments are especially effective because they involve using hydrogen gels to open the enamel and remove stains that are deep below the surface. These kinds of products are very effective on natural teeth. However, they do not remove stains from porcelain veneers.
When it comes to dealing with stains on veneers, prevention is key. Building healthy habits and properly caring for these tooth coverings can help prevent stains from developing. There are also a few professional options if stains do develop or become severe.
Just as with natural teeth, many foods and drinks can stain veneers, especially when consumed regularly. Try to limit:
If you do partake in any of these substances, make sure you clean your teeth directly afterward. Brushing or rinsing immediately after every meal or snack can also help prevent stains from foods and beverages.
An additional oral hazard to veneers is tobacco. Chewing or smoking tobacco products can stain portions of veneer treatments. It is particularly damaging to any composite substances that are used to attach them to the teeth. Using tobacco products can cause the edges around your veneers to turn yellow or brown and develop a dark, discolored frame around your nice, white veneers. It can also still stain your natural teeth underneath and cause artificial coverings to look dull or gray in appearance.
Food particles and bacteria can collect on the surface of veneers. Brushing and flossing are essential for removing these and preventing stains. Routine checkups and cleanings can also ensure that the veneers are thoroughly cleaned and look fresh and bright. Talk with your dentist to decide how often you should make appointments to keep your veneers in good shape.
Certain kinds of toothpaste contain high-grit ingredients that can scratch and damage veneers. These tiny scratches can trap food particles and lead to unsightly staining. When brushing your teeth, be sure to use a gentle toothpaste that is safe for porcelain veneers. If you are ever unsure about a particular toothpaste, consult your dentist beforehand. Your dentist can tell you which toothpastes are bad and good for veneers and help suggest the right toothpaste for you.
Even though traditional teeth whitening treatments cannot be used on dental veneers, there are professional options that can help improve their appearance. For example, certain types of veneers reflect off of the natural teeth. In these cases, whitening behind the natural tooth may help give the veneer a whiter shade. In other instances, a dentist may be able to reglaze the veneers to eliminate staining. When discoloration is severe, especially towards the end of a veneer's life, replacement may be recommended for better results.
Even though professional teeth whitening is not the right solution for dental veneers, there are many other ways you can keep your veneers looking white and bright. Limiting particular drinks and foods as well as staying away from tobacco products. Preventative care also plays a critical role in combatting stains, but there are professional options for removing them. You should also use good yet mild toothpaste and see your dentist regularly to fight against any potential stains. You might even require additional professional dental work in extreme circumstances, such as reglazing or replacement procedures. Talk with a dentist to determine which approach is suitable for your situation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.northcoastfamilydental.com or call North Coast Dental Implants & Cosmetics at (760) 705-3407 for an appointment in our San Marcos office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in San Marcos, CA.
Even if we do not like it, there is a reason our general dentist recommends routine visits at least every six months. In fact, there are several important reasons why we should get into the habit of going to the dentist for regular visits as often as is necessary or as is told. The visits…
For patients with aesthetic and structural tooth imperfections, dental veneers are a common solution for improving the function and look of one’s smile. This restorative option involves attaching custom-designed shells, made from either composite materials or porcelain, over the front, visible portion of a tooth. For patients considering this solution to enhance the appearance of…
We all try our best to look out for our oral health, but the only way to truly keep up with our oral health is with preventative care provided by a general dentist. Brushing and flossing and oral hygiene are important, but there is so much that a dentist does that accounts for keeping us…
Veneers are an excellent option for individuals seeking a permanent treatment that makes their teeth more attractive. A smile is often one of the first features noticed about a person; unfortunately, many dental issues can dim that happy look. Teeth may become stained from eating and drinking various types of food and drink over time.…
Even if we do not like it, there is a reason our general dentist recommends…
For patients with aesthetic and structural tooth imperfections, dental veneers are a common solution for…
We all try our best to look out for our oral health, but the only…
Veneers are an excellent option for individuals seeking a permanent treatment that makes their teeth…
Keeping dental implants clean through daily oral care and routine dental visits will help make…
A general dentist can help if you find yourself dealing with tooth pain. As uncomfortable…
