Can You Whiten Veneers? All You Need To Know

Veneer Whitening: Is It Possible?

A smile can make all the difference in someone’s day. If you’re thinking of getting veneers, then you’ll want a tooth-colored material that looks and feels natural. But what material can do that job? Is it possible to whiten veneers over time? 

Trying to pick the right teeth whitening treatment can be an overwhelming experience. That’s why a Glendale dentist will explain below all you need to know about veneer whitening. This way, you can know the best process to get a shiny and healthy smile without risking your teeth’s health. 

Why Do Veneers Change Color?

Porcelain veneers are the most common type of veneer treatment. They are custom-made shells made from tooth-colored materials, making them look almost as realistic as natural teeth. Porcelains cover the front surface of each tooth, leading to an enhanced natural smile and youthful appearance.

The custom-made shells are bonded to the front of each tooth to appear as natural as the other teeth. The dentist does the bonding process carefully to obtain the best results for a natural-looking smile.

Veneers do not stain as easily as natural teeth, but they can still change color over time. Their surface can develop discoloration after long exposure to pigmented drinks or foods, such as dark coffee and wine. 

You can avoid discoloration by using straws when drinking, quitting smoking, and brushing your teeth according to your dentist’s indications. You may still get subtle stains over time, but not to the same level as if you take care of your veneers. 

You should always follow your Arrowhead dentist’s recommendation to keep your veneers in the best condition possible. This is the best advice to prevent your veneers from looking yellowish or brownish. 

What Other Things Can Lead To Discolored Veneers?

In addition to pigmented foods, the following occurrences can also discolor your veneers.

• Your age — Our gums recede as we age, leaving the area where the veneer touches the tooth exposed. It can cause brown stains on your teeth because the veneers are bonded into that place, and that material is already showing. 
• Your Veneer’s Age — If your veneers are more than 20 years old, it may be time to visit the dentist and see what you can do. Veneers made over 20 years ago may not be made with porcelain. Years ago, veneers were made with plastic or other materials that aren’t as durable as the ones dentists use today.
• Damage from injuries — Did your teeth recently experience any injury? If yes, you should be aware of the type of damage. If the injury caused the dentist or the tooth’s inner tissue to get severely harmed, the tooth could become discolored. Consequently, the veneer can also appear discolored. 

Can I Whiten My Veneers?

Before calling the Glendale dentist, you should always take notes of the stains you’re seeing in your veneers. You may be tempted to try an at-home whitening treatment, but veneers do not respond well to these treatments. Therefore, you cannot whiten your veneers at home. 

If your veneers have recently become discolored, the best you can do is to speak with your dentist. The dentist will give you detailed information on how to get your bright smile again.

You may be unable to whiten your veneers with treatment, but that doesn’t mean you cannot improve their appearance. Frequent professional cleanings will remove surface stains, making them look white again. Your veneers will remain as bright as possible if you visit your dentist regularly. 

Can I Replace My Veneers?

If you have old veneers, the dentist may recommend you replace them with new ones, especially if they cannot reverse the discoloration.

To keep your veneers looking brand new, take adequate care of them. Avoid highly pigmented drinks and foods, brush and floss your teeth often, and remember to schedule professional cleanings every six months. 

Proper Care For Your Veneers

As we previously mentioned, you should brush your teeth properly and schedule a professional cleaning with an North Phoenix dentist every few months. However, it’s crucial to avoid any food or beverage that could stain your teeth, including:

• Red wine
• Dark Coffee
• Black tea
• Dark chocolate
• Blueberries
• Coke 

Brush your teeth after drinking or eating any dark-colored beverage or food to reduce the acidity and sugars that normally bond to the teeth. If you cannot brush your teeth at that moment, rinse your mouth with water to prevent the stains. 

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth. Also, floss at least once a day and use mouthwash twice a day. Make sure the mouthwash is also free of colorful pigments. 

Contact A Trusted Arizona Dentist

To keep a healthy smile and take proper care of your teeth, contact Aesthetic Dentistry of Arrowhead through our website or phone. We offer plenty of dental services that vary from whitening procedures to veneers and implants. Whether you need a simple cleaning or a smile makeover, we can help!