You probably know coffee tends to stain teeth if you drink it often. With enough java on your enamel, the latter will turn from white to brown! However, you might wonder if the same applies to porcelain veneers. After all, the prosthetics are made of ceramic and thus artificial. Well, your local dentist is here with the answer. Read on to learn whether veneers from Los Angeles stain and some ways to reduce the risk of discoloration.
Will Coffee Stain My Veneers?
While the porcelain in veneers is stain-resistant, it isn’t stain-proof. It’ll thus endure coffee better than natural teeth, but enough exposure can lead to staining. Drink too much java, then, and your veneers will lose their effectiveness.
Keep in mind, too, that temporary veneers stain more easily than permanent ones. It’s vital to avoid coffee while waiting on your final prosthetics.
How Should I Respond if the Veneers *Do* Stain?
If you notice your veneers becoming stained, talk to your local dentist about possible treatment options. While they can’t whiten the porcelain layers, they can repolish them to look shinier. Similarly, your dentist could perform a thorough cleaning that removes the stains. If all else fails, they could replace the veneers with new ones.
How to Avoid Stains on Veneers
Of course, you’re better off avoiding stains on your veneers in the first place. That said, consider using the tips below:
Avoid Foods and Drinks with Staining Agents
The best way to prevent veneer stains is to avoid foods and drinks known for staining teeth. The latter include coffee, wine, tea, tomatoes, berries, dark sauces, and so on.
If you have a drink with staining agents, do so with a straw. That way, the liquid will avoid your teeth and not cause stains.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking can stain the composite that attaches the veneer to your corresponding tooth. As a result, it can make the pearly white’s edges look brownish.
Adding insult to injury, smoking can damage your teeth and gums and cause dental problems. Should that happen, your dentist may need to remove your veneers to treat the underlying tooth structure.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
In terms of oral hygiene, care for veneers like you do natural teeth. Namely, brush them twice daily, floss between them once daily, and rinse with mouthwash as needed. Don’t use whitening toothpaste, though, as it’s quite abrasive and can wear down the resin on veneers’ porcelain.
Wear a Mouthguard
Consider wearing a mouthguard if you play contact sports or grind your teeth when you sleep. By preventing trauma and dental injuries, the appliance stops the dentin beneath your veneers from discoloring.
In the end, coffee can stain veneers just as it can enamel. Remember the tips above so your cup of joe doesn’t dirty your white and bright smile.
About the Practice
Westside Dental Associates is based in Los Angeles, CA. As led by Dr. Les Latner, the practice provides comprehensive and high-quality dental services. Its treatment options span preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry for all ages, including emergency procedures. Furthermore, the dental team’s staff uses the latest technology to ensure superior results. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach them at their website or by phone at (310)-765-7441.