I thought that porcelain veneers were stain resistant until mine began staining last month. I got veneers in June 2021, so in just two years, I am noticing stains. I have not finished paying for the veneers yet. Should I schedule an exam with the cosmetic dentist who placed the veneers? I live almost two hours away now, but I will drive there if I am paying for veneers that will only worsen. Thank you. Sienna from Macon, Ga
Sienna,
Thank you for your question. Dr. Gavrilos would need to examine your teeth and veneers to determine the cause of the stains. Still, we can explain factors that may cause stains on veneers.
Do Porcelain Veneers Stain?
Porcelain veneers do not stain unless the glazed surface gets damaged or the areas around the veneers are rough and attract stains. Factors that can cause stains include:
- A power polishing machine can damage the surface.
- Acidulated fluoride scratches the veneers.
- A gap between the porcelain and your tooth attracts stains.
Stains on the Entire Surface of Porcelain Veneers
Dental hygienists may mistakenly use power polishing equipment or acidulated fluoride on veneered teeth. In that case, the stains will affect the entire surface of porcelain veneers.
Stains at the Margins Where Porcelain and Teeth Meet
Stains between teeth may indicate a gap between the veneers and your teeth. A dentist or hygienist may need to polish and smooth excess dental bonding. One technique uses ultra-fine polishing strips and ultra-fine aluminum oxide polishing paste on the veneers. Regular porcelain veneers maintenance has these benefits for veneers:
- Resists stain
- Minimizes plaque accumulation
- Prolongs the life of the veneers
If you are consistent with regular maintenance appointments, the accumulation of stains will be minimal. You may return to the dentist who placed your veneers, or you can look for a local dentist with advanced, post-graduate cosmetic dentistry training to examine your veneers and explain options for removing the stains on your veneers.
Barrington, Illinois accredited cosmetic dentist, Dr. James Gavrilos, sponsors this post.