A radiant smile can be a game-changer, boosting your confidence and allowing your inner beauty to shine on the outside. Dental veneers are thin shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth, and have become a popular solution for achieving that picture-perfect smile. They can transform your appearance, fixing issues such as discolouration, chips, gaps, or misalignment.
However, one concern some patients have noticed over time is their veneers turning black. This naturally can be quite alarming, especially when you’ve invested so much into enhancing your smile. So, why do veneers turn black? It’s important to note this is extremely rare and uncommon as veneers are known for being colour stable and long-lasting. Their success rate is 99% at 10 years and 80% after 20 years. However, in the 1% of cases it is possible for a veneer to change colour and there are a number of reasons.
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells, typically made from porcelain or composite resin, that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of your teeth. Veneers can transform your smile, addressing a variety of concerns such as discolouration, chips, gaps, or misalignment.
If you’re considering veneers, it often helps to view some dental veneers before and after images to see the dramatic improvement they can have on your smile.
Possible Reasons Why Veneers Turn Black
While it’s not common for your veneers to turn black, it’s important to understand the possible reasons behind this issue. Understanding these can help you take the necessary steps to maintain the beauty and health of your veneers.
Poor Bonding or Fitting
The process of fitting veneers requires precision and expertise. When veneers are not bonded or fitted correctly, it can lead to a number of issues, including discolouration. The space between the veneer and your natural tooth can allow bacteria to get in, leading to a darkening of the veneer over time.
Cheap or Substandard Material
The quality of the materials used plays a significant role in the longevity and appearance of your veneers. Substandard materials or cheap alternatives may not have the same resistance to staining, leading to a blackening effect over time.
Gum Recession
Gum health is an integral part of your overall oral health. Gum recession can expose the edges of your veneers, which can lead to discolouration. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can help maintain healthy gums and prevent this issue.
Enamel Erosion
The enamel is the outermost layer of your teeth, which plays a crucial role in protecting your veneers. Enamel erosion can expose the underlying veneer material, causing it to turn black.
Damaged Veneer Glaze
Veneers are typically coated with a glaze that provides a natural, shiny finish. If this glaze is damaged, it can lead to the veneer turning black.
Inexperienced Dentists
The skill and experience of your dentist plays a significant role in the success of your veneers. Inexperienced dentists may make mistakes during the veneer installation process that can lead to discolouration.
What Can You Do to Fix Discoloured Veneers?
If you’ve noticed your veneers turning a shade darker, don’t panic. There are several things you can do to fix your glowing smile. Some people also wonder, do veneers turn yellow? The same tips below can help avoid discolouration of any colour.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a procedure where a tooth-coloured resin material is applied to the veneer and hardened with a special light, ultimately bonding the material to the tooth to improve its appearance. This can be an effective solution for minor discolouration issues, helping to restore the original colour of the veneer.
Get New Veneers
In some cases, the best solution might be to replace the discoloured veneers with new ones. This is typically recommended when the veneers are old, heavily stained, or made from substandard materials.
Whitening the Real Teeth
If the discolouration is due to the natural teeth underneath the veneers becoming stained, teeth whitening might be an effective solution. It’s important to note that the whitening process will change the colour of the teeth beneath, and not the veneers, but it can help to improve the overall appearance of your smile.
Polishing the Veneer
Over time, the glaze on your veneers can wear off, leading to a dull and discoloured appearance. Your dentist can polish the veneers to restore their original shine and colour.
How Can You Avoid Black Veneers?
Maintaining the beauty of your veneers involves more than just regular dental check-ups. From the lifestyle choices you make to the products you use, here are some tips to help you avoid black veneers and maintain a radiant smile.
Check Reviews When Choosing a Dentist
Always do your research and check reviews before choosing a dentist for your veneer installation. The more experience they are, the better results you will get.
Do Not Smoke
Smoking can lead to the discolouration of your veneers over time. If you’re a smoker, consider quitting or reducing your tobacco use to maintain the colour of your veneers.
Steer Clear of Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol consumption can erode the bonding material used for your veneers, leading to potential discolouration. Moderation is key when it comes to alcohol consumption.
Do Not Use Harsh Products
Avoid using harsh oral care products that can damage your veneers. This includes abrasive toothpaste and mouthwashes that contain alcohol. Always choose products that are gentle and safe for veneers.
Follow a Proper Oral Hygiene Routine
Good oral hygiene makes a huge difference. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to keep your mouth clean and healthy.
Visit Your Dentist Every 4 Months
Regular dental check-ups can help detect and address any issues with your veneers early on. We recommend visiting your dentist every four months for a thorough cleaning and examination.
Consume a Healthy Diet
Eating the right foods can also impact the colour of your veneers. Foods high in sugar and acid can damage your veneers and lead to discolouration. Choose a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
What is a Leaky Veneer?
A leaky veneer refers to a dental veneer that has not been properly sealed or bonded to the tooth. This improper bonding can create small gaps between the veneer and the natural tooth, allowing bacteria, food, and other substances to creep in. Over time, this can lead to a variety of issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and discolouration of the veneer.
If you suspect that you have a leaky veneer, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible. They can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action, which may include repairing or replacing the veneer.
Is Tooth Decay Under Veneers Possible?
While veneers themselves cannot decay, the natural teeth underneath them can. This is why maintaining good oral hygiene is just as important after getting veneers as it was before.
Veneers are bonded to the front surface of your teeth, but the rest of your tooth remains exposed. If plaque and bacteria build up in these exposed areas, it can lead to tooth decay. Plus, if the veneers are not properly sealed or if they become damaged, bacteria can seep underneath them and cause decay.
Book a Veneers Consult
Ready to transform your smile with veneers? The first step is booking a consultation with our experienced Dental + Skin Clinic team. We’ll assess your oral health, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine whether veneers are the right solution for you.
We understand that every smile is unique, and we’re committed to providing personalised care that meets your specific needs. Don’t let concerns about discolouration hold you back from achieving the smile of your dreams. With the right care and expertise, veneers can provide a beautiful, long-lasting transformation.
