I’ve had porcelain veneers for about one-year. In fact, I’m still paying on them. I noticed today they’re picking up some mild staining between my teeth. I thought they were stain resistant. Is something wrong? What do I do?

Karlyn M.

Dear Karlyn,

You’re right that porcelain veneers are stain resistant. In fact, they’re more resistant than our natural teeth and should last you many years with proper maintenance. If damage had been done to your veneers, which is possible if your hygienist uses a prophy jet or an acidulated fluoride, the staining is over the entire tooth.

Because your stains are between the teeth, it makes me think you’ve got some composite bonding staining there. Though, I couldn’t tell you exactly without seeing a picture of it. This is fairly easy to solve and is actually just part of routine maintenance for your veneers. However, your average family dentist won’t know this polishing procedure. So, for this particular part of your regular maintenance, I’d go back to the dentist who placed your veneers to begin with.

Proper Maintenance for your Porcelain Veneers

• Daily Oral Care: Be sure you’re brushing and flossing regularly. While your veneers are decay resistant, the exposed parts of your teeth are not. You’ll need to keep up with your care so you don’t end up needing a filling on a veneered tooth.
• Toothpaste: I’m sure your cosmetic dentist already told you this, but the ideal toothpaste for you to use is Supersmile toothpaste. It’s specifically designed for use with cosmetic work.
• Regular Polishing: Just as your veneers were polished when you first received them, you need to schedule regular re-polishing appointments. The hygienist uses ultra-fine polishing strips in this area and an aluminum oxide polishing paste. For smokers, that’s even more important.

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