16 Sep How Stain Resistant are Porcelain Veneers?
The porcelain used to make dental veneers is a composite of several materials that have been studied and improved since the process was created in the 1960’s. Technology has advanced along with the materials providing superior stability, shading, and durability for porcelain veneers.
Porcelain is shaped and strengthened at the dental lab by employing high quality products and a process that produces wafer thin, glass like covers to repair teeth due to:
- Stain – When teeth have been stained from medications, over-fluoridation, or lifestyle habits, the stained teeth can be covered with veneers. With porcelain, the surface of the veneer resists stains along with the adhesive that holds the veneer in place. Veneers fabricated from other products may not have the equivalent resistance to stains.
- Chipping – Teeth that have sustained this type of damage can be made beautiful again while enhancing the strength of the tooth.
- Misshapen – Teeth can appear symmetrical by correcting their shape, adding length where needed, and repairing teeth that have been worn down.
- Unwanted spaces – The gaps between teeth appear to close when veneers are placed eliminating unattractive spaces between teeth.
Teeth requiring repair are prepared by removing a very thin amount of dental enamel. The front surface of the tooth is “etched” in an effort to promote the adhesion of the veneer.
The cosmetic dentist will temporarily place the veneers to ensure that the shape and color will match untreated teeth. Any adjustments needed to correct size or shape can be done at that time.
When the dentist and patient are completely satisfied, the veneers are permanently cemented on the front of the treated teeth.
Just as porcelain is resistant to stains, a porcelain veneer will not be affected by any teeth whitening process, so if whitening is anticipated it should be done prior to having teeth prepped for veneers.
Caring for dental veneers is easy. Daily flossing and brushing coupled with twice yearly cleanings by your dental provider should keep them shining and healthy.
But even though your new veneers are resistant to beverages that stain like coffee, tea, and wine; and resistant to foods that are known to discolor like tomato sauce, berries, and beets; it is best to limit the potential for staining by consuming these items minimally. Make yourself aware of what to avoid, and your veneers should look great for many years.
To learn more about the benefits of porcelain veneers, contact our experienced team at The Dental Place today. Call 972-264-5795 to arrange your personal consultation.