Veneers are an excellent way to correct any cosmetic dental flaws you may have. They can fix gaps, fractures, severe discoloration and more. Their naturally white appearance leaves your smile not only flawless but also whiter. However, as time progresses, age, using tobacco or drinking items like coffee, tea or wine can cause surfaces and the materials that bond the veneers to your teeth to develop a yellow or brown tint. Once this occurs, you may wonder if it is possible to whiten your veneers. Read on to find out what you can do to restore your smile.
How Do Veneers Become Discolored?
Tannins are a type of plant compound that can be found in berries, grape skins, stems and seeds and are often bitter in taste. Tannins are what give drinks like black tea and red wine their deep, rich coloring. While the surfaces of veneers are non-porous and don’t stain easily, the coloring from nicotine products and these beverages can adhere to the surfaces of your restorations and the composite resin that that keeps them place can begin to change color. Age and dental trauma can also cause discoloration.
Can Veneers Be Whitened?
Unfortunately, traditional teeth whitening methods are not very effective on veneers. However, there are ways to help reduce the presence of dental stains. A professional whitening treatment may not be able to remove discoloration from your veneers, but a dental cleaning at your dentist’s office may be able to help lighten them. If professional cleanings are unable to help remove or at least lighten your surface stains, you may want to consider replacing your veneers.
Practicing a proper dental care routine is very important to your dental health and the appearance of your veneers. Flossing and brushing your teeth twice a day, every day and visiting your dentist at least twice a year will make it difficult for stubborn stains to attach to your dental surfaces and keep your smile bright and beautiful.
About the Practice
The experienced dentists at NeoSmile Dental Care are committed to providing every patient who enters their doors with personalized, top-quality dental care. Dr. Amy Farrell has spent nearly a decade transforming smiles throughout the community. She earned her doctorate at the University of Maryland Dental School and completed a General Practice Residency at Abington Memorial Hospital. Dr. Krunal Patel received his initial dental degree from Pacific Dental College and Hospital in India and completed his doctorate from the New York University College of Dentistry. Their professional memberships include the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association and more. If you are ready to restore your smile, visit the website or contact the office at (215) 643-5220 to schedule an appointment today.