If you are considering receiving porcelain veneers, you may have questions about them. It is important to understand that they are permanent additions to your teeth, and that they can become tarnished if they are not properly cared for. Dark liquids like red wine, coffee, and tea can leave veneers stained. While they are designed to endure the regular stresses placed on your teeth, veneers can still become chipped or cracked. Your dentist can inspect your teeth to make sure that they are healthy enough to receive veneers, and can help you understand how you can best maintain them.

Having Porcelain Veneers Placed On Your Teeth

Before your dentist can bond your porcelain veneers to your teeth, their measurements will need to be taken, to ensure a proper fit. In order to accommodate the space occupied by your veneers, your dentist will also need to remove a small portion of your enamel. Once they have been crafted, your dentist can affix the veneers to the front of your teeth in a subsequent visit. Placeholder veneers may be provided between these visits.

Caring For Your Veneers

Porcelain veneers are durable, but they are not indestructible. They can be susceptible to damage, as well as discoloration:

  • Damage: If you suffer from bruxism, or habitual teeth grinding, you should address this before receiving veneers, as that grinding can damage your veneers. Chewing or biting on hard substances, like ice, can also put them at risk of physical harm.
  • Discoloration: Porcelain veneers are resistant to staining, but dark foods and beverages can cause them to become discolored. Coffee, tea, and red wine are commonly cited as carrying a risk for affecting the color of your veneers.