You’re pleased with your porcelain veneers and are happy with how long they’ve held up over the years, but you’re wanting your new smile to shine just a little bit brighter now. What can you do? You’ve heard of teeth whitening but are unsure if it will work since you won’t be treating your natural teeth. Will it do any good to try an over-the-counter whitening product? Find out whether this popular method of cosmetic dentistry in Severna Park can brighten your veneers or if your money is better spent elsewhere.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Using thin layers of dental porcelain, veneers are considered to be small coverings that fit properly over the surface of your teeth and cover cosmetic flaws, such as:
- Chips
- Cracks
- Stains
- Discoloration
- Gaps in teeth
- Minor misalignments
- Misshapen or crooked teeth
They are custom-made to match the color, size, and shape you desire, giving you a fully transformed smile that is stain-resistant and can last a decade or longer.
Can You Whiten Veneers?
Unfortunately, veneers cannot be whitened. Porcelain is extremely durable and is designed to not only resist stains but mimic the color of your teeth. While this isn’t to say that they cannot change colors over time (because they can), it is highly unlikely. Some reasons your veneers might experience some discoloration include:
- Gum Recession – As you age, your gums may begin to recede, which can cause the area where the veneer and tooth meet to become discolored by dark-colored beverages and food.
- Injury – If you experience damage to the inner layer of your tooth (dentin), it can cause your natural tooth to become discolored, thus, changing the color of your veneer.
If you try over-the-counter products or even professional in-office or at-home whitening kits, it will not work to brighten your smile. While regular dental cleanings are important for examining your veneers and removing minor surface stains, the only way to address stubborn, deep down stains is to have your veneers replaced.
While this may not be the answer you were hoping to hear, veneers are designed to give you the brighter smile you desire. There are ways to keep them looking as bright and white as possible, and that is by:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day for a full two minutes, as well as flossing at least once a day.
- Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash.
- Avoiding hard foods, as well as alcohol and sugary foods and drinks
- Avoiding dark-colored foods and beverages
- Maintaining regular dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist in Severna Park
- Quit smoking
Porcelain veneers are not meant to last forever, but if you want them to maintain their color for their average duration, it is best if you follow the suggested tips listed above to keep your veneers and your oral health in check.
About the Author
Dr. Melody Ward wants you to have a beautiful smile, which is why she offers porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, and a host of other cosmetic dentistry services. Her ability to hide imperfections, rebuild, and repair smiles are why so many patients keep coming back. Dr. Ward’s expertise and knowledge are evident from her time spent at the University of California, San Diego, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude, with a bachelor’s degree. She then went on to attend dental school at the University of Maryland Baltimore, earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Dr. Ward also completed a Master of Science degree and completed her residency in periodontics. To learn more about Dr. Ward and the services offered, visit our website.