Have you noticed some discoloration and staining on your dental veneers after a few years? Veneers do not become stained by pigmented foods and beverages nearly as easily as your natural tooth enamel, but they aren’t completely immune to discoloration over time. However, you can’t whiten your veneers in the same way that you whiten your teeth. Read on to learn how veneers in Boca Raton become discolored, how you can brighten them up, and some ways to prevent discoloration in the future.
How Do Veneers Become Discolored?
Veneers are made out of a material that is stain resistant and doesn’t become discolored very easily. However, surface stains are still able to develop from exposure to dark, pigmented foods and drinks. This includes some berries, tea, coffee, and red wine. You may also experience discoloration as a result of using tobacco products.
Can You Whiten Veneers?
When you feel like your teeth are discolored, you may have the urge to head to your local supermarket and pick up an over-the-counter whitening kits. However, whitening veneers isn’t this simple. Dental veneers don’t respond to this in the same way as your natural teeth do, so this is not a good idea. Instead, talk to your dentist about it. They will be able to improve their look with regular visits by removing surface stains during professional cleanings. If your veneers are very discolored, your dentist may recommend having them replaced entirely for a whiter result.
How Do You Prevent Discoloration?
Here are a few ways you can keep your veneers from becoming discolored over time:
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Your veneers are not susceptible to decay, but the teeth that they are attached to are. In order to prevent decay and staining, it is important to brush twice and floss once daily as well as rinsing with mouthwash regularly.
- Use a Whitening Toothpaste: Your dentist will have your veneers made to match the color of your surrounding teeth. Use a whitening toothpaste to keep your natural teeth from becoming discolored over time.
- Avoid Staining Foods: Highly pigmented foods should only be consumed in moderation. Be sure to brush your teeth afterwards to avoid additional staining. If you are having a pigmented beverage, using a straw can help to limit the contact between the liquid and your teeth.
- Don’t Smoke: Tobacco products can turn your teeth from white to yellow over time. Talk to your friends, family, and doctor about the best ways that you can quit.
Veneers aren’t known to become stained easily, but it isn’t impossible. Instead of trying an over-the-counter treatment, talk to your cosmetic dentist in Boca Raton about possible solutions.
About the Author
Dr. Steven H. Feit is an experienced dentist and prosthodontic specialist who has been working in the field for three decades. He has completed many mini residencies including the Cosmetic Continuum at Louisiana State University. He is currently a member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, The Dawson Academy, and The Piper Center for Internal Wellness. For more information on veneers or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (561) 338-7535.