Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular treatments in cosmetic dentistry. They can be used to conceal a wide array of aesthetic flaws, including chips, cracks, slight misalignment, and dental discoloration.

Porcelain veneers may be your best option for addressing discoloration, depending on the type of staining you have. Today, Rancho Cucumonga, CA dentist Sharon Mateja explores how porcelain veneers for stained teeth can transform your smile and give you a boost in confidence.

About Porcelain Veneers: An Overview

Designed to bond to the front surfaces of the teeth, porcelain veneers are created with layers of tooth-colored ceramic. Veneers can effectively mask small chips, hairline fractures, staining, and other aesthetic imperfections.

Typically, porcelain veneer treatment can be completed in two office visits. During the first appointment, the teeth are prepared and dental impressions are taken.

These images are then sent to our dental lab where a trained technician will carefully craft your veneers to complement your natural dental anatomy.

Once the veneers are complete, we will schedule you for a second visit to try on your veneers and bond them into place.

Common Causes of Dental Staining

Most dental stains are caused by dark-colored foods and beverages in the standard American diet. Things such as berries, tomato sauce, colas, red wine, tea, coffee, soy sauce, and similar items can darken the teeth over time.

This type of discoloration is referred to as extrinsic staining. Often, extrinsic stains can be effectively treated with professional teeth whitening.

Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, are deep within the tooth structure. This type of discoloration can be caused by trauma, health conditions, or certain medications.

Teeth whitening does little to address the problem. Therefore, patients with intrinsic dental stains should consider alternative options, such as dental bonding or porcelain veneers.

Porcelain Veneers for Stained Teeth

Did you know that the majority of Americans believe that an attractive smile is a key component to personal success in life? In fact, a number of studies have shown that attractive individuals are perceived as more friendly, intelligent, and successful.

Stained or yellowed teeth can make even a healthy smile look less attractive. This is why many patients seek treatments in cosmetic dentistry.

Porcelain veneers can instantly make your teeth look whiter, brighter, and more balanced. With today’s advanced materials, your veneers will look incredibly natural and lifelike.

Can Porcelain Veneers Stain?

Porcelain is stain-resistant. Therefore, porcelain veneers are not as likely to become discolored as your natural teeth. However, the veneers can still darken slightly over time. That is why it is important to consume dark-colored foods in moderation.

Keep in mind that porcelain veneers are not affected by teeth whitening, either. Therefore, if you wish to brighten your entire smile, we recommend bleaching your teeth first. That way, your custom veneers can be color-matched to your new tooth shade for a dramatically beautiful outcome.

Contact Our Practice to Learn More

If you are insecure about stained or discolored teeth, we can help you determine if porcelain veneers can help you achieve your aesthetic goals. To learn more about cosmetic dentistry, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mateja, contact us online or call our office at (909) 989-5959.