There’s nothing quite like a warm cup of coffee to start your day. If you’re a daily coffee drinker, chances are you’re familiar with how this beverage can stain your teeth over time. But does the same thing happen when you have veneers in Glenpool? If you’re considering enhancing your smile with veneer treatment or already have veneers, you won’t want to miss the information below.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin but durable shells that are bonded to the front of teeth to conceal a wide range of dental imperfections. Typically made from tooth-colored porcelain, veneers can change a single tooth or dramatically transform your entire smile. You may be a good candidate for veneer treatment if you have:
- Discolored or stained teeth
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Slightly crooked teeth
- Misaligned or misshapen teeth
- Undersized teeth
- Gapped teeth
Can Veneers Get Stains?
Unlike natural teeth, porcelain veneers are non-porous and thus highly resistant to staining from foods, beverages, and smoking. This means your smile can stay whiter for longer with veneers. However, it’s important to keep in mind that stain-resistant is not the same as stain-proof. Over time, certain foods and beverages – including coffee – can stain or dull veneers.
How to Prevent Veneer Staining
Here are three tips to prevent your veneers from becoming stained or discolored.
Avoid Dark Foods and Drinks
The best way to avoid staining your enamel or your veneers is to avoid consuming dark foods and drinks. This includes coffee, black tea, blueberries, curries, and pasta dishes with red sauce. If you do frequently drink coffee with veneers in Glenpool, try drinking through a straw so the liquid bypasses your teeth.
Avoid Smoking
While smoking may not directly stain your veneers, it can easily stain the composite that bonds a veneer to your tooth. As a result, the edges of your tooth may appear brownish and unattractive. In addition, smoking can also potentially cause damage to your teeth and gums that requires your veneers to be removed for treatment.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Practicing excellent oral hygiene at home will help keep your smile healthy and stain-free. Brush twice a day for at least two minutes each time with a soft-bristled toothbrush. In addition, be sure to floss daily and rinse regularly with anti-bacterial mouthwash. Finally, don’t forget to visit your dentist every six months for a dental exam and professional cleaning.
How to Remove Staining from Veneers
If your veneers are already stained, traditional teeth whitening treatments likely won’t help. However, the following may be able to restore your smile’s brightness:
- Professional dental cleaning
- Specialized toothpastes
- Veneer polishing
- Reglazing veneers
- Replacing porcelain veneers
Veneers in Glenpool are a versatile way to boost the appearance of your smile. By following the tips above, you can ensure your veneers stay in great shape for as long as possible.
About the Author
Dr. Parnam “Patrick” Mohanna has over three full decades of experience working in the dental industry. The proud University of Oklahoma graduate uses a digital impression system to craft comfortable, high-quality veneers for his patients. To learn more about the benefits of veneer treatment, visit the 918 Dentist website or call 918-216-1000.