Can Porcelain Veneers Be Whitened?

A lot of people who were feeling a bit too self-conscious about the aspect of their teeth opt for cosmetic dentistry. Porcelain veneers, in particular, can help you correct minor issues and get a flawless smile. 

But, if you had your veneers for a while now, you may notice that they are not as white as before. That is normal as porcelain veneers tend to wear out just like our natural teeth. That usually happens because of our lifestyle choices, such as drinking too much coffee or smoking, or because of improper oral hygiene. 

If you are at this point right now, you may be wondering if you can whiten your veneers. 

Here's what you need to know. 

Why Have My Veneers Changed Color? 

Porcelain veneers are made to last. This durable material doesn't stain as easily as the natural enamel and can resist for up to 20 years in very good conditions. 

However, certain factors can affect the appearance of your veneers: 

• Your Age: As we age, our gums tend to recede, exposing the gum line more and more. If you have veneers, then this process will expose the area where the veneer was bonded to the natural tooth. 

• The Age of Your Veneers: While quite durable, veneers don't last forever. As mentioned before, their lifespan can go as high as 20 years, given that you are taking good care of them. If your veneers are reaching the end of their life, then they may not look as good as before, and you may need to replace them. You should also consider when you got your veneers. If you got them one or two decades ago, then the material wasn't as effective and durable, and it may not look as good as modern veneers. 

• Tooth Trauma: If you experience a blow to your face or a tooth trauma and the tooth's inner tissue has been affected, then you may notice some discoloration in your veneers too. 

Can I Whiten My Veneers? 

If you are not happy with the appearance of your veneers, you may be tempted to try an at-home whitening kit. It's important to know that these kits don't work for veneers, and you may be doing more harm than good. 

Your best bet is to see your dentist and have them examine your veneers. Based on that examination, they will decide if you are a good candidate for a professional level cleaning or if it would be better to replace your veneers altogether. 

You can also maintain your veneers by taking good care of them. That included brushing daily, going to regular dentist appointments, and avoiding staining foods. 

Get the Best Dental Treatment at Skutak Dental 

If you want a personalized dental approach and a team of professionals who are kind and compassionate, then you will find everything you need and then some more at Skutak Dental. 

Get in touch with us now to book your appointment. 

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