Discolored Teeth

Chief complaint:

I take a Vitamin C supplement in powder form daily, which I mix in yogurt. Can ascorbic acid powder discolor Lumineers or my regular tooth enamel? Also, does it affect 'zoom' whitening results?
Thanks.

—Annie from Wisconsin

Annie,

I don't believe ascorbic acid power will discolor teeth, lumineers, or other dental work, nor will it affect whitening results.

Coffee, tea, tobacco, wine, and berries are the chief offenders as far as substances that contribute to the discoloration of teeth. The strong pigments affect the teeth gradually over the years, making them become duller, browner, or more yellow. The darkening process may not be apparent until after ten years, but it can become pronounced. Tooth whitening with an at-home tray system will soak into your teeth and oxidize away those tooth stains, leaving them bright and beautiful again.

Usually, an expert cosmetic dentist will suggest a brief one-visit touchup every year or two to minimize the re-staining effect of these foods that everyone eats. For more information, read our page about tooth whitening relapse.

The porcelain in Lumineers or in any porcelain veneers, doesn't absorb stain so long as it is maintained properly. Avoiding harsh abrasives and using Supersmile whitening toothpaste daily seems to provide the best protection against discoloration of cosmetic dental work.

—Dr. Hall