If you always start the day with a hot cup of coffee, then you probably know how it can stain your teeth thanks to the tannin it contains. So if you’ve recently gotten veneers as part of a smile makeover, you might worry that they could suffer from the same problem. Can you drink coffee with veneers in Canonsburg, or will you have to skip your daily cup of Joe to protect your new grin? Here are the facts.
Will Coffee Stain Your Veneers?
Veneers in Canonsburg are typically made out of porcelain, a durable material that won’t irritate or injure the soft tissues in your mouth. One of the biggest advantages of using porcelain to make veneers is that it’s a nonporous material that doesn’t stain easily. That means even if you’re a daily coffee drinker, you can expect your porcelain veneers to maintain a bright appearance for a long time.
It should be noted, though, that being stain-resistant is not the same as being stain-proof. With enough repeated exposure to coffee and other dark-colored beverages, porcelain veneers can eventually become discolored. That said, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of stains and maintain a beautiful smile without giving up on coffee altogether.
How Can You Protect Veneers from Stains?
Below are some simple steps you can take to keep your veneers looking nice and bright:
- Only consume coffee and other stain-causing beverages in moderation. The less often you expose your veneers to these liquids, the less likely they are to cause discoloration.
- Always drink your coffee through a straw. That way, the liquid will bypass the front side of your veneers entirely.
- Practice good oral hygiene. That means flossing regularly and brushing at least twice a day. (Do not use whitening toothpaste; it’s very abrasive and could scratch your veneers.)
What Can You Do If Your Veneers Do Become Stained?
If your veneers eventually become discolored, you may consider having a teeth whitening treatment done to remove any stains. Unfortunately, while professional whitening is a reliable method for brightening natural teeth, it doesn’t work very well on veneers.
As such, it’s best to make an appointment with your dentist to see if they have a solution. Sometimes a thorough cleaning is all it takes to remove any stains. In severe cases, though, having your veneers replaced altogether might be the only viable option.
By giving your veneers the proper care and being mindful of your oral habits – including drinking coffee – you can keep your veneers looking pristine. Don’t forget to talk to your dentist to see if they have any additional tips for taking care of your veneers and making sure they continue to look their best.
About the Author
Dr. Raj Vekariya earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at New York University’s College of Dentistry. At Center One Dental, he provides his patients with a wide range of dental services to help them maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. Cosmetic dentistry is one of his favorite topics, and he loves having the opportunity to help people transform their grins with veneers. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Raj, visit his website or call (724) 300-3700.