Are Porcelain Veneers a Solution for Discolored Teeth?
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Even with a dedicated dental hygiene routine and healthy habits, it can be almost impossible to avoid at least some staining or discoloration, particularly with age. Fortunately, patients today have more options than ever for brightening a dull or stained smile — some of which can provide results that last for decades. One such treatment is porcelain veneers, which can be used both to conceal tooth staining and also to improve the overall appearance of the smile by correcting other cosmetic dental imperfections. At Riley Dental in Haslet, TX, Dr. Luke Riley and his team offer custom dental veneer treatment using the most modern and effective materials, bonding process, and more to help patients near Fort Worth and Richland Hills achieve a more beautiful smile they can feel confident about for years to come. If you are self-conscious about your stained teeth but prefer a solution that is longer-lasting and more comprehensive compared with teeth whitening, keep reading to learn why porcelain veneers may be the answer.
How do porcelain veneers make your smile whiter?
Rather than removing stains on the teeth, porcelain veneers work to boost the shade of your smile by concealing discoloration. With porcelain veneers, the thin, shell-like veneers are custom-made to fit perfectly over the visible surface of the tooth, wrapping just slightly around the edges for stability. This allows the forward-facing portions of stained teeth to be concealed, while also creating a more even, seamless, attractive new smile overall.
How much whiter can my teeth get with veneers?
One of the most exciting benefits of porcelain veneers is that they can be created in almost any shade, allowing patients to achieve their ideal shade of white. Veneers can also be customized to match the patient's other teeth — those not covered with veneers — to ensure a natural look, if desired.
How long do veneers last?
When cared for properly, porcelain dental veneers can last for up to 10 – 20 years and are highly stain-resistant, meaning patients can enjoy their whiter, brighter smile much longer than may be possible otherwise. While porcelain veneers are considered extremely durable, it is still possible to stain or damage veneers, making it critical to follow your veneer aftercare instructions closely. These may include:
- Avoid staining foods and beverages.
- Brush or rinse after drinking coffee, tea, red wine, and other staining items
- Brush, floss, and rinse twice daily
- Keep your regularly scheduled biannual professional dental cleanings
- Do not bite fingernails or chew ice
- Consider a protective night guard and/or athletic mouthguard
Can I whiten my porcelain veneers if they get stained?
Porcelain veneers cannot be whitened in the way that natural teeth can — neither with professional nor at-home teeth whitening products. Fortunately, porcelain veneers are created from stain-resistant material, but if you do notice your veneers becoming dull or discolored after many years, it may be possible to replace the veneers to restore your desired shade of white.
Feel confident showing off your smile with porcelain veneers in Haslet, TX
If you find yourself shying away from social situations, selfies, or smiling in general because of your stained teeth, porcelain veneers may offer the opportunity to get the brighter, whiter smile and boosted self-confidence you deserve. Take the first step in transforming your smile — and potentially changing your life — by calling Riley Dental to schedule your porcelain veneer consultation with Haslet, TX dentist Dr. Luke Riley today.