6 Tips to Keep Your Veneers Free From Stains

When you first get your veneers, you will probably be very pleased with their clean white colour. However, as your veneers age, they may begin to darken and take on a slightly yellow or brown hue. If you don't want to lose your beautiful white smile, follow these tips to keep your veneers free from stains.

1. Select the Right Veneers

There are two main types of veneers: porcelain and composite. Although porcelain veneers usually cost more than those made from composites, they can be worth the investment as they are much less likely to develop stains. Discuss both options with your dentist to find out which one is best for you.

2. Quit Smoking

If you currently smoke, kicking the habit is the best thing you can do to protect the whiteness of your veneers. Cigarette smoke causes natural teeth and composite veneers to turn slightly yellow, which is not a good look. Porcelain veneers are less likely to develop stains as a result of smoking, but chemicals in the smoke can still harm your oral health. Ask your doctor for help to quit.

3. Use a Non-Abrasive Toothpaste

Abrasive toothpastes create tiny scratches in veneers, which can make them lose their sheen. Many whitening toothpastes contain abrasive ingredients such as baking soda, microbeads or silica. Instead of using one of these toothpastes, look for a non-whitening toothpaste that can protect your oral health without damaging your veneers.

4. Choose Beverages Carefully

Some drinks cause stains to develop on veneers, as well as on natural tooth enamel. The biggest culprits include red wine, black tea and coffee. Try swapping some of these drinks for white wine, herbal tea or plain water to protect your veneers.

5. Limit the Damage

What if you can't stand the thought of giving up your morning coffee? There are some things you can do to limit its contact with your teeth. One option is to drink through a straw, which keeps the liquid away from the visible front surfaces of your teeth. Another option is to rinse your mouth with water after you drink a dark-coloured liquid to wash it away from your veneers.

6. Don't Skip Dental Cleanings

Remind your dentist about your veneers whenever you have a cleaning. Your dentist can use a special polish to buff the veneers and restore their original sheen. The cleaning techniques your dentist uses can also strip plaque away from your veneers, helping to keep them white.