Countless millions of people around the world rely on their morning cup of coffee to help them ease into each day. Are you among them? Whether you like yours black, with cream, or in the form of a delicious latte, you may have questions about how this beverage can affect dental work. Specifically, you might wonder, “Can you drink coffee with veneers?” This blog post explores the answer to that common question.
How Coffee Affects Veneers
Most veneers are made out of porcelain. Porcelain is a nonporous material, meaning that it does not absorb pigments like regular tooth enamel. Therefore, it is highly resistant to stains. Most people can enjoy coffee in moderation without worrying that it will cause premature discoloration on their veneers.
However, keep in mind that while porcelain resists stains, it is not impervious to them. Overconsumption of highly pigmented foods and beverages may make your veneers lose their luster over time. This is especially true if your veneers incur scratches that can trap pigment particles inside of them. The bonding material that keeps them in place can also become discolored.
If your veneers are not porcelain — for example, if they are made out of composite resin — it would be best to avoid coffee and other dark beverages to the extent possible. Composite resin is much more likely to become discolored over time than porcelain.
How to Reduce the Risk of Stains
Here are some tips to help you enjoy coffee while posing a minimal risk of staining to your veneers:
- Moderation is the key. Drinking a cup or two of coffee in the morning should not be a problem. However, continually sipping on coffee all day long poses a greater staining risk.
- Use a straw. A straw minimizes the amount of contact that the coffee has with both your teeth and your veneers.
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene. A thorough oral hygiene routine can reduce staining on both your natural teeth and your veneers. Keep in mind, though, that it is generally not a good idea to use whitening toothpastes on veneers. Such products tend to be abrasive and may scratch the porcelain.
- Drink plenty of water. Water can rinse away coffee particles in your mouth, helping your smile to stay fresh and clean.
- Visit your dentist regularly. During your routine checkups, your dental team can clean your veneers and your teeth.
- Avoid other staining habits. For example, you should never smoke cigarettes or chew tobacco. Such habits can easily stain the bonding material that keeps your veneers in place.
You do not have to give up coffee after you get veneers. However, you may need to make a few small adjustments to your habits in order to protect your smile from discoloration.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. James J. Kalina is an experienced general and cosmetic dentist in Mankato. Veneers are among the many services he offers. Whether you are thinking about getting them or are concerned about discoloration on veneers you already have, he and our team would be pleased to serve you. Contact us at 507-625-2021.
