Types of Stains
Two types of staining exist: Intrinsic and Extrinsic.
Intrinsic Staining
- This occurs mostly when the veneer absorbs the food or drinking colouring and changes colour permanently.
- However, this usually only happens with composite veneers that are made of a high strength plastic.
- Initially, they do not stain and look good. But over time they may change in different ways including tooth wear and a difference in colour.
- Composite veneers tend to pick up colouring from various foods and drink like curries and red wine.
- Composite veneers made in the laboratory (takes two visits) tend to be stronger and have better glossy finishes when compared to composite veneers created in the surgery in one visit.
- For this reason, laboratory-made composite veneers tend not to pick up as much staining.
However, the nature of plastics is as such that over time they will start to look worn and discoloured.
If you are trying to avoid discolouration, staining and damaging your veneers, we would recommend opting for veneers made of porcelain, which will not change in shape or colour over time.