Caring for Veneers

Porcelain veneers can transform your smile, providing a beautiful and natural-looking appearance. These thin, custom-made shells are bonded to the front of your teeth to enhance their shape, color, and alignment. To ensure your investment in porcelain veneers lasts for years to come, it’s important to follow proper care guidelines. Caring for Veneers

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is the foundation for the longevity of your porcelain veneers and overall dental health.

Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Gently clean the veneered teeth. Be sure to pay attention to the gum line and the areas where the veneers meet the natural teeth.

Floss Daily: Use dental floss to clean between your teeth and around the edges of the veneers. This helps remove plaque and prevent gum disease.

Rinse with Mouthwash: Rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash to kill bacteria and keep fresh breath. Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol. This is because it can damage the veneer’s appearance.

Avoid Force and Habits

To protect your veneers from damage or premature wear, it’s crucial to be mindful of certain habits.

Avoid Biting Hard Objects: Refrain from biting or chewing on hard objects such as ice, pens, or your fingernails. Heavy force can chip or crack the veneers.

Be Cautious with Foods: While veneers are durable, it is best to avoid hard or sticky foods. They can strain or dislodge the veneers. Cut hard foods into smaller pieces and chew carefully.

Use Mouthguards for Sports: If you play contact sports or activities that pose a risk of oral injury, wear a mouthguard to protect your veneers from damage.

Minimize Staining

While porcelain veneers are resistant to stains, it’s vital to reduce exposure to things that can alter them over time.

Limit Staining Beverages: Reduce drinking of beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sodas that can stain your natural teeth. Unfortunately, these can affect the color of your veneers.

Quit Smoking: Smoking not only stains your natural teeth but can also cause discoloration on the surface of your porcelain veneers. Quitting smoking benefits your overall health. This will also help keep the brightness of your veneers.

Regular Dental Check-ups and Cleanings

Scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings is vital for the success of your veneers.

Routine Examinations: Visit your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure the health and integrity of your veneers. Your dentist will check the veneers and assess their condition. They will address any concerns or issues that may arise.

Professional Cleanings: Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that can build on your veneers. This helps keep their look and prevents gum disease.

Consider Nightguards for Bruxism

If you suffer from bruxism, protecting your veneers from excessive force is crucial. A mouthguard can shield your veneers from nightly grinding. 

Nightguard Protection: Consult your dentist about a custom-made nightguard. Wearing this while sleeping helps reduce the impact of grinding or clenching. This will prevent damage to your veneers.