A dental veneers specialist is often asked: Why are my veneers discolored? In this article, we discuss the factors that can lead to veneer discoloration and provide tips on how to prevent it, as well as what to do if it occurs.
Why Are My Dental Veneers Discolored?
Dental veneers are thin porcelain shells typically made of porcelain or resin composite that cover the entire front of a tooth. Porcelain is a more stain-resistant material compared to resin composite. Nonetheless, both types of veneer can become discolored for several reasons, which include:
- The surface of your veneers is damaged and has microscratches. They might not be visible, but food and beverage residue, as well as plaque, can accumulate in them, making veneers appear darker or more yellow.
- Yellow or brown stains are caused by smoking, one of the leading causes of discoloration in veneers and natural teeth.
- Acidic and staining foods and beverages can also cause discoloration, especially if consumed regularly.
- Inadequate oral hygiene can lead to plaque and tartar accumulating on the surface of your veneers, causing them to appear discolored.
- Since veneers are fragile and slightly translucent, they can appear discolored if the tooth underneath is decayed and its darkened parts are visible through the veneer.
- The bonding cement, which attaches veneers to your teeth, can become discolored with time and show through.
- You have had your veneers for a long time, and they have naturally lost their shine and original color. Generally, porcelain veneers should be replaced every 4 to 5 years, while composite veneers may need replacement even more frequently.
What to Do if Your Veneers Become Discolored
Never attempt to clean your veneers with abrasive toothpaste or homemade solutions, such as baking soda or vinegar mixes. Similarly, you should never use whitening products on your veneers. Neither porcelain nor resin composite is designed to be compatible with these products, and the only result you are likely to achieve is further damage to your veneers.
If you notice that your veneers have lost their original appearance, your first course of action has to be a consultation with your cosmetic dentist. Only a specialist will be able to determine the cause of veneer discoloration accurately and recommend the proper course of action:
- In cases where discoloration is caused by underlying tooth decay, the infected tooth must be treated as soon as possible to avoid tooth loss, and the veneer is typically replaced with a new one.
- Veneers are also usually replaced if the cause of discoloration is the darkening of the bonding material, if your veneers are too old, scratched, or if the staining is too deep.
- In cases where surface discoloration and staining are caused by plaque and tartar accumulation, a professional cleaning may help improve the veneer’s appearance without requiring replacement.
How to Prevent Veneers from Becoming Discolored
To avoid veneer discoloration, we recommend following these simple rules:
- Abstain from staining foods and beverages, such as red wine, black coffee and tea, berries, beetroot and carrots, and brightly colored spices. If you consume any such products, brush your teeth immediately after the meal.
- Maintain effective oral hygiene by removing plaque and food residue from your teeth daily.
- Abstain from smoking.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for professional cleanings and checkups.
Get Stunning Veneers at Dentist Mission Viejo
If you are considering dental veneers, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced cosmetic dentist at Dentist Mission Viejo. At our dental office, we utilize only high-quality materials to deliver exceptional results to our clients. We are looking forward to your visit.