How to Whiten Teeth That Are Laminated

Laminates are usually more resistant to stain-causing foods and drinks than other bonding techniques.

The realistic, translucent appearance of porcelain laminates -- also known as veneers -- makes them a popular option for correcting cosmetic dental problems such as discoloration, chipping or crookedness. It is in the nature of a porcelain laminate to provide inherent stain-resistant qualities despite an individual's diet, unlike a tooth's natural enamel, due to its glaze. However, the edges of porcelain laminates commonly discolor over time, and the rest of the laminates can become susceptible to staining because of abrasive dental treatments that cause damage to the laminates' outer glaze.

Instructions

1. Locate a cosmetic dentist in your area. Be sure to find a true cosmetic dentist rather than a general dentist who offers cosmetic dental work.

2. Purchase a specialized veneer-whitening toothpaste from your cosmetic dentist. Use as directed according to package instructions in order to dissolve the glycoprotein pellicle on laminates that leads to discoloration.

3. Get a maintenance polish from your cosmetic dentist. Make a single appointment for edge stains and slightly tinged rough areas to be polished. Polished laminates will repel similar stains in the future.

4. Consult your cosmetic dentist regarding more serious staining or yellowing. Double-check that your veneers are not made from a stain-prone porcelain substitute. Undergo the laminating process from the beginning with authentic materials in order to avoid a repeated incident with such defective materials. Be sure to seek an expert cosmetic dentist for such work.

References

• My New Smile: Treating Stained Porcelain Veneers
• My New Smile: Is This Another Case of Porcelain Veneers Damage?
• Animated Teeth: Porcelain Veneers / Dental Laminates
• UCLA School of Dentistry; Microbiology of Dental Plaque; Dr. Susan Kinder Haake

Resources

• My New Smile: Find a Cosmetic Dentist