Porcelain veneers resist staining

As a group, cosmetic dental bonding materials have the shortcoming of being susceptible to staining and discoloring. This is especially true when they are used in conjunction with individuals whose consumption habits include the use of tea, coffee, red wine, and tobacco products.

A significant advantage of placing porcelain veneers as opposed to cosmetic dental bonding is that a porcelain veneer's surface is just that, porcelain. Since porcelain is a ceramic, and therefore glass-like, a veneer's porcelain surface will be extremely stain resistant. Porcelain veneers are often used to make cosmetic changes for teeth that are chipped, worn, stained, crooked, or discolored. You need to realize, however, that case selection is an extremely important factor associated with predicting the success of this technique. Porcelain veneers cannot be utilized in every situation.

Only your dentist can determine that placing porcelain veneers is an appropriate treatment choice for you. And they can only make this determination after a thorough dental examination. Even if you find that porcelain veneers are not appropriate for your specific situation, your dentist can most likely suggest other treatment options that can make the type of cosmetic change you are seeking.