Can veneers be whitened?

The most popular cosmetic treatments in the UK are tooth whitening and veneers. 

Tooth whitening comes in many varieties and can be used to improve whiteness and brightness – but can veneers be whitened or is this designed for natural teeth alone? 

The pioneers for cosmetic veneers, London Centre for Cosmetic Dentistry, reveal all. 

Can veneers be whitened? 

Sadly, not all veneers can be whitened once they have been fitted to your natural teeth – only porcelain veneers can be whitened and it must be done by a professional. 

This means that if you have previously opted for composite veneers, you will need to have them removed and replaced if they become discoloured. 

Because of these limitations, dentists should advise that if you want a brighter, whiter smile you should first whiten your natural teeth and then choose veneers that match this shade before focussing on prolonging the life of your veneers. 

Why can porcelain veneers be whitened? 

Porcelain veneers may not need whitening in your lifetime. 

However, if they do, it is possible because they have a non-porous surface, unlike composite veneers or tooth enamel. This means that staining will remain on the top of the veneers, won’t penetrate below the surface, and can be removed with something as simple as professional cleaning. 

Ways to whiten porcelain veneers 

• Professional cleanings – to remove surface stains plaque, and debris, a dentist can offer professional cleaning to the tooth itself and along the edges of the veneers. 

• Replacing dental cement – if your dental cement has discoloured, your veneers may have lost some of their sparkle. Replacing this is simple and easy. 

• Special whitening treatments – if needed, the dentist can use special whitening treatments to whiten veneers and the rear of the natural teeth. 

• Replacement veneers – if they have come to the end of their life, veneers can be replaced in an appointment or two. 

How to keep your veneers white and shining 

If you have composite veneers or just want to extend the whiteness of your porcelain veneers as much as possible, there are a few things you can do, including: 

• Rinsing your mouth after meals or staining drinks: This will wash away any leftover particles that can cause stains.
• Limiting the consumption of staining foods and drinks: Options that have staining potential include:

• Drinks: Wine, tea, coffee, sports drinks, or fizzy pop

• Foods: Balsamic vinegar, sauces made with tomato or soy, curries, bright or high citrus fruits, and foods high in added sugar, like chocolate or sweets.
• Ensuring any damage is promptly replaced: If veneers are chipped, your natural teeth below can be at risk of decay, staining, or increased sensitivity.
• Attending professional cleanings regularly: To stop stains, plaque, and tartar from developing on both the veneers and your natural teeth, regular professional cleanings are essential.

Thinking veneers? Contact the London Centre for Cosmetic Dentistry

Instead of wondering ‘can veneers be whitened?’ Why not ask an experienced provider and get to the bottom of it once and for all?  

At LCCD, we have 35 years of experience fitting and maintaining veneers for patients of all kinds and have the expertise of a uniquely qualified team. This includes Dr Mervyn Druian, who was the very first dentist to introduce porcelain veneers to UK patients.  

If you decide to book a consultation to discuss veneer whitening treatment and your eligibility, you can call us on 0207 722 1235 or fill in our enquiry form. We’ll then find you an appointment that suits you best.