If you’re frustrated by flaws in your teeth, you’re not alone. Countless patients have sought cosmetic dental procedures, like porcelain veneers, to mend or mask imperfections in their smiles. Whether you have chipped, discolored, overcrowded, or slightly gapped teeth, this treatment can enhance your appearance.
Many avid coffee drinkers, however, wonder whether they’ll have to give up their favorite beverage to maintain their newly perfected grin. Keep reading to learn more about how your cup of joe could impact your porcelain veneers so you can put your mind at ease!
What are Porcelain Veneers?
This cosmetic solution consists of thin, ceramic shells that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth to improve your aesthetic. They can be customized to match, or brighten, your natural pearly whites. They’re coated with a glaze that’s durable enough to resist damage like chipping and stains- but are they foolproof?
Do Porcelain Veneers Stain?
While it’s true that your veneers may be less likely to become discolored than your natural teeth, in time they can become stained. Repeated contact with common culprits known to dye your teeth like dark berries, coffee, tea, and wine can leave them looking worse for wear. Smoking is another harmful habit known to cause them to look darker and dingier with continued use.
In short, your porcelain veneers are less likely to have issues but aren’t impervious to prolonged or frequent exposure to ingredients that leave them a less-than-sparkling shade.
Keep in mind, too, that any teeth visible in your smile that don’t have veneers will show signs of discoloration sooner than those that do. You could end up with multiple hues, giving your grin an uneven or unhealthy appearance.
How Can I Keep My Veneers Clean?
To keep your perfected smile in tip-top condition, it’s important to establish a healthy at-home dental hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily removes plaque buildup that stains cling to. Plus, it’ll keep your teeth fresh and clean so your veneers last longer.
Another great way to keep them in good shape is to avoid foods and drinks known to alter their appearance. Eliminate or reduce your consumption of ingredients that you know can cause problems.
How Can I Address Stained Veneers?
If you’ve noticed that your veneers aren’t shining as brightly as they used to, have hope! There are some things you can do to refresh their appearance including:
- Scheduling a professional dental cleaning. Your dentist has the right experience and instruments needed to polish away surface stains.
- Using specialized toothpaste intended for veneers. They won’t respond to the bleaching agents in standard whitening products.
- Getting your veneers reglazed or replaced. Ask your dentist about refreshing your veneers or creating a new set, depending on the extent of the damage.
Now that you know how to keep your porcelain veneers looking great, you can keep your beautiful smile for years to come!
About the Practice
At Huckabee Dental, you and the entire family benefit from a full range of dental services provided by a team of experts all under one roof. They have three general dentists and an oral surgeon on site so no matter the condition of your teeth and gums, they have ways to help. They use state-of-the-art technology like digital imaging and impressions to enhance patient comfort and create lifelike, long-lasting improvements to your smile. If you’re interested in veneers or would like yours replaced, you’re welcome to request a consultation on the website or by calling the office at (817) 329-4746.