Can You Whiten Veneers?

Porcelain veneers can be a transformative choice for those looking for a radiant smile makeover. They are a great option to whiten teeth and also can reshape, resize and balance your smile for a flawless, natural-looking appearance. Many of those who opt for veneers find themselves smiling more confidently and worrying less about their teeth. 

Even though veneers are highly durable and stain-resistant, they aren’t completely immune to discoloration over time. So, what happens when your veneers start to dull or show stains? Can they be whitened like natural teeth? The answer is no – as traditional teeth whitening treatments don’t work on veneers, which means prevention is key. In this article, we’ll explore why veneers discolor, how to prevent staining and the best ways to care for your veneers to keep your smile looking its best.

The Basics Of Dental Veneers

Dental veneers have become a popular cosmetic treatment that is designed to transform your smile. They are thin, custom-made shells that are typically crafted from porcelain or composite resin and then bonded on the surface of your teeth to address a variety of aesthetic concerns. Discoloration, chips, cracks, gaps, or misalignment can all be tackled with veneers and their natural look that helps enhance your overall appearance. Composite resin veneers can be a less expensive option with comparable results to porcelain veneers, which are known for their longevity and stain resistance.

Ultimately, veneers are an investment in your smile. By choosing the right type for your needs and committing to consistent care, you can enjoy a beautiful, dazzling smile for years to come. You’ll want to consult with your dentist to determine if veneers are the right choice for you and to create a personalized plan to get your dream smile.

What Causes Dental Veneers To Stain?

While veneers are highly resistant to staining compared to natural tooth enamel, they aren’t completely immune to discoloration. Over time, surface stains can happen due to prolonged exposure to highly pigmented foods and drinks like coffee, red wine, and dark sodas. There are a handful of other factors that can also contribute to the discoloration of veneers as well. Understanding these causes can help you take steps to prevent staining altogether and maintain the look of your veneers for years to come.

Aging and Gum Recession

As you age, your gums may recede, exposing the edges where the veneer meets the natural tooth. This can reveal the bonding material underneath, which can stain and create brown lines along the gumline. Unfortunately, gum recession is irreversible and the exposed areas are more susceptible to staining.

Older Veneer Materials

If your veneers were made over 20 years ago, they may not be made from modern, stain-resistant porcelain. Older veneers were often made of plastic or more porous porcelain, which are more prone to discoloration over time.

Trauma or Damage

If the underlying tooth experiences trauma or damage, the dentin (the inner tissue of the tooth) can become discolored. This yellowing can show through the veneer, making it appear stained even though the veneer itself is still intact.

How To Properly Care For Veneers

With proper maintenance, veneers can last a decade or more. While veneers are made to be durable, they still require some maintenance to stay in top condition. Here’s how to properly care for them:

• Excellent Oral Hygiene: Just as you do with your natural teeth, you want to have great oral hygiene habits to keep your smile looking bright and healthy. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to brush your teeth twice a day. To avoid damaging your veneers, be careful around their edges. Floss daily to remove plaque and keep your gums healthy, or use a water flosser for more convenience.
• Avoid Hard Foods and Objects: Veneers can chip or crack if they are used with excessive force. Avoid biting into hard items like ice, nuts, or pens, and never use your teeth as tools to open packages.
• Protect Against Teeth Grinding: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, wear a custom night guard to protect both your natural teeth and veneers from damage.
• Refrain From Stain-Causing Food and Drinks: While porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, it’s still a good idea to avoid over-consuming coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. If you do still indulge in these, make sure to rinse and gently brush afterward to reduce the risk of surface stains.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule a visit with your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and exams. These appointments help your dentist monitor the condition of your veneers and address any problems early on.

Solutions For Discolored Veneers

If your veneers have started to lose their brightness or have developed a yellow or brown tint, it’s important to remember that traditional whitening treatments won’t work on porcelain veneers. Instead of trying at-home remedies, consult with your dentist to explore your options. Professional cleanings can help remove surface stains, and in some cases, replacing older veneers with new ones may be the best solution to restore your smile’s radiance.

At Carrie Muzny D.D.S., we’re dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Serving Benders Landing, Woodforest, Spring, North Houston, and the Conroe/Montgomery areas, we offer a wide range of services from routine cleanings and cosmetic dentistry to restorative care and sedation dentistry. We offer virtual consultations or in-person visits to make your experience as comfortable as possible and tailored to your unique needs.

If you’re ready for a brighter smile, contact us today to book your appointment!