Porcelain veneers can provide fast and effective teeth whitening from the off. But if you’re still not satisfied with how white your smile looks even after veneer treatment, you might be exploring further ways to whiten your teeth.
Although veneers are less prone to staining than your natural teeth, they can still become discoloured or turn yellow due to age and lifestyle choices. Heavily coloured beverages like red wine and dark coffee can cause surface staining on porous surfaces like your natural teeth and even porcelain veneers over time.
Seeking professional advice from a dentist before attempting any kind of at-home teeth whitening is highly recommended. Even if the veneers may not respond to the treatment, you can still enhance their appearance in other ways.
Dr Joe Oliver has been a leader in the cosmetic dentistry field for more than three decades and has fitted more than 40,000 veneers in this time. He is renowned for his cosmetic dentistry services in Harley Street, London and Manchester and has developed a deep understanding of how veneers age, as well as providing patients with expert advice on the best ways to keep veneers in top condition.
If you’re considering getting porcelain veneers or teeth whitening treatment, contact us to find out more. You can call the clinic on 020 7770 6441 or email info@old.theoliverclinic.co.uk.
Can porcelain veneers stain?
Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment used to mask discolouration, chips, and other imperfections in the teeth. But can they stain like natural teeth? The answer is yes, and it is important to understand how to care for porcelain veneers so that they remain stain-free.
Porcelain veneers are custom-made shells that are tailored according to each individual and are made of tooth-coloured material. They cover the front part of your teeth, ultimately allowing you to have an aesthetically enhanced smile. The shells of dental veneers are affixed to the front surface of your teeth. This provides a more natural appearance and feels as if they were your natural teeth.
Veneers may be less vulnerable to staining compared to natural teeth, but they are still prone to discolouration. This can happen if you consume dark drinks like coffee and red wine on a regular basis.
Does teeth whitening work on porcelain veneers?
Teeth whitening treatments and tooth whitening toothpastes are designed to remove stains from the enamel of your natural teeth, but they might not have any effect on porcelain veneers and composite resin. However, there are a few options available for whitening porcelain veneers that can help you achieve a brighter smile.
Regular visits to your dentist for professional cleaning can help maintain the brightness of your veneers by removing surface stains. It is an effective way to ensure that they remain in good condition.
If you feel that the porcelain glaze has become discoloured due to the age of your old veneers, an experienced cosmetic dentist can offer a veneer replacement to whiten your smile once again.
How can I whiten veneers?
Veneer stains can be avoided with the right kind of preventive care. Practising good oral hygiene, like brushing your teeth regularly and after eating meals high in acidity or sugars, can keep veneers looking clean and shining for a long time.
After eating or drinking any coloured food or beverages, it’s important to brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or at least rinse your mouth with water. Doing so can help reduce the chances of staining. It is also advised to steer clear of consuming deeply pigmented food and drinks to prevent any discolouration.
Should I whiten my teeth before or after porcelain veneers?
We would recommend whitening your teeth before getting veneers or crowns if you wish to have a whiter appearance. This ensures that the dental work matches the colour of the natural tooth underneath, providing a more satisfying and brighter result.
While your natural tooth enamel can respond well to at-home whitening treatment which can remove surface stains, the same can’t be said for porcelain veneers. Veneers are highly stain resistant and respond well to professional cleanings, but they are not as easy to whiten as stained teeth.
Can I have teeth whitening after dental veneers?
Generally speaking, teeth whitening after dental veneers is not recommended as it could cause the veneers to become discoloured or stained. It is best to consult with your dentist before undergoing any type of whitening procedure if you have had dental veneers placed.
There are ways to whiten your teeth if you already have porcelain or composite veneers. You could try a professional tooth whitening system on the back of your teeth or consult a cosmetic dentist about gentle polishing toothpaste.
Prevent stains with proper care
Get in touch if you’d like more information or advice on how to whiten porcelain veneers. Dr Joe Oliver is a leading cosmetic dentist who has helped countless patients achieve a beautiful smile.
Book a free no-obligation consultation if you’re keen to know more about porcelain veneers or how best to whiten veneers. You can call the clinic on 020 7770 6441 or email info@old.theoliverclinic.co.uk.
