Veneers are an excellent dental restoration treatment to disguise damage and discoloration that doesn’t respond to traditional whitening. This restoration technique can be a considerable investment in improving your smile, making it vital to keep them looking their best for as long as possible.
While it is normal for veneers to change with age, if you notice severe discoloration, you may be wondering if there is something you can do to restore their original color. Continue reading to learn about veneer whitening and how to keep them looking superb.
Why Do Veneers Become Discolored?
As with natural teeth, veneers can become discolored for various reasons. Factors such as diet, lifestyle, and daily habits are the most common causes of veneer discoloration. Veneers are durable but have a limited lifespan, so proper care and maintenance are crucial. Let’s discuss the main reasons for veneer discoloration.
Diet
While veneers are more stain-resistant than natural teeth, they can become discolored with constant exposure to specific foods and drinks. It is best to consume coffee, red wine, soda, soy sauce, and dark juices in moderation and always brush your teeth afterward. Foods that contain highly acidic ingredients, like citrus and tomatoes, can also contribute to discoloration.
Smoking
The chemicals present in tobacco products like tar and nicotine can have a considerable impact on veneer discoloration. It’s common for smoking to cause yellowing, especially composite veneers, which are more prone to staining. Smokers may need more regular cleanings, but it is recommended to stop smoking to preserve your veneers for longer.
Oral Hygiene
It is vital to maintain excellent dental hygiene to keep your veneers looking good for as long as you can. You should brush twice daily with soft-bristled and non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste, floss after each meal, and take vitamins and minerals that support oral health. Always speak to your doctor before taking new supplements. Yet, vitamins A, C, and D can prevent gum disease and keep your mouth healthy.
Aging
As aging affects natural teeth, it can also play a role in veneer discoloration. Over time, veneers lose their shine due to wear. Veneers are remarkably durable and can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance, but they don’t last forever. Unbalanced diets, smoking, and poor oral hygiene can all reduce this lifespan, increasing the speed at which veneers degrade.
Can I Whiten My Veneers at Home?
The short answer is no, but let’s discuss why veneers can’t be whitened with store-bought bleaching kits. Firstly, there are two main types of veneers: porcelain and composite. Porcelain veneers are very popular because they are exceptionally durable and have a natural appearance. However, composite veneers are made of a dental resin material that is less durable but can be more cost-effective.
Secondly, each veneer type reacts differently to stains and the products made to remove the stains. Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, but they eventually lose their shine because they last so many years. They may appear stained as the natural underlying teeth become discolored. The general bleaching treatments do not affect these stains, as porcelain doesn’t react to the chemicals used.
The resin material used to make composite veneers is significantly more porous than porcelain, making them susceptible to stains. Dental whitening treatments are ineffective and often cause damage to composite veneers. If you use bleaching kits, you may see uneven whitening, leaving patches of discoloration. When done incorrectly, whitening treatments can harm the natural teeth.
If your veneers or natural teeth are damaged, you may need to have your veneers removed and go through the veneer fitting process again. It’s crucial to treat your veneers with care and only use dentist-approved products to clean and maintain them.
How Can I Whiten My Veneers?
The most important thing you can do to keep your veneers looking their best is to practice excellent dental hygiene. Brushing twice daily, flossing, using mouthwash, and keeping your gums and tongue healthy can prevent premature veneer discoloration and wear.
It’s critical to visit your dentist regularly to maximize the lifespan of your veneers. During your appointments, your dentist will examine your oral health and veneers to treat any problems before they become serious.
Periodic professional dental cleanings can keep your veneers looking bright and shiny for longer. Regular cleanings can keep your natural teeth clean and stain-free so they continue to match your veneers perfectly if you have partial veneers.
Protect Your Investment
Now that we understand the details let’s review what you need to know. Your habits have the most significant impact on the appearance of your veneers. An unhealthy diet, smoking, poor dental hygiene, and age can all lead to discoloration, so you must be mindful of your oral health.
It is also important to schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to help you stave off bacteria buildup, staining, and any potential issues with your underlying teeth. Proper maintenance and care make your veneers look bright and beautiful for many years. If your veneers have become stained or have lost their luster, contact Dr. Nargiz Zadeh to schedule a consultation.