Did you know that nearly 75% of American adults have had at least one cup of coffee within the past week? This beany beverage is known for its caffeine content and bold aroma, but it can also harm your smile if you’re not careful. For instance, it contains tannins that can tint your teeth a muddier hue that leaves you feeling self-conscious about your appearance.
If you have veneers, you might think you don’t need to worry about dental discoloration because they’re not made from the same material as your enamel. Continue reading to learn more about it so you can maintain a bright, healthy grin!
Do Veneers Stain?
These thin covers are made from materials like resilient porcelain or resin that can be color-matched to your teeth and reflect light like enamel. They’re coated in a glaze that is durable enough to resist a certain amount of chipping and stains to provide your pearly whites with an added layer of protection. Plus, they are non-porous, meaning they don’t easily absorb stain-causing ingredients as easily as your natural teeth.
However, they’re not completely impervious to harm, and repeated or prolonged exposure to darkly pigmented foods and drinks can eventually leave them looking worse for wear. Unfortunately, once they become discolored, it’s difficult to whiten them because they don’t respond to topical bleaches like enamel. You’ll need to see your dentist to have them professional polished or potentially replaced, depending on their condition.
How Can I Maintain My Veeners?
Thankfully, there are several things you can do to keep your restorations looking clean and bright, such as:
- Implement a routine. If you don’t already, now’s a great time to start brushing and flossing twice daily to remove plaque, bacteria, and food debris that might tint the tone of your teeth or prosthetics.
- Use the right supplies. A hard-bristled toothbrush can damage the surface of your veneers, so you may want to switch to a soft-bristled option and use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid harming the surface.
- Don’t smoke. Tobacco products contain nicotine, which can stain your teeth and weaken the cement holding your restorations in place.
- Visit your dentist consistently. Scheduling a standard exam and cleaning every six months allows your provider to catch and address any areas of concern, like darkening veneers, before they can progress.
- Watch what you eat. Avoid common culprits like coffee, wine, and tea that are known to stain the surface. You should also steer clear of anything overly hard or sticky that can damage or dislodge them.
If you’re uncertain whether it’s time to polish or replace your veneers, the best way to find out is to consult with your dentist!
Meet the Author
Dr. Robert Fromuth enjoys helping people of all ages build and maintain happy, healthy teeth and gums. He earned his dental degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he graduated with honors, and is committed to ongoing education through his participation in several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Today, he provides a comprehensive array of services, including cosmetics, and can provide color-matched veneers to enhance your smile. You can request an appointment on the website or call (603) 644-3368.