Your porcelain veneers are designed to last a lifetime. However, regular wear and tear can slowly degrade the materials over time, reducing their life expectancy. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to maintain your veneers and chip fillings to last well into the future. For a long-lasting revitalized smile, follow these steps to properly care for your veneers.
Clean Your Veneers Regularly
Veneers require just as much attention as normal teeth. The space between your veneers and gum line can collect plaque and tartar the same way natural teeth do. And over time, stains can affect the look of your veneers if you’re not cleaning them properly. So be sure to use a soft bristle toothbrush to brush twice a day and floss regularly to keep your teeth and veneers looking clean and white.
Brush and Floss Gently
Porcelain is durable but not completely indestructible. That’s why it’s important that you avoid putting too much pressure on your veneers and chip fillings when you’re brushing and flossing. Too much stress can cause them to chip or crack.
Use a Non-Abrasive Polish
To keep your new white veneer nice and glossy for years to come, you should purchase a non-abrasive polish. This will gently remove any food particles and plaque without causing any damage to the surface or bonding resin.
Protect Against Stains
Always rinse your mouth out with water after consuming food or drink that can stain your veneers. These include wine, coffee, tea, soda and certain spices like turmeric and curry. If possible, you should also carry a travel toothbrush and paste to clean your veneers after consuming staining food and drink when you’re on the go.
Avoid Tobacco Products
Speaking of stains, tobacco is not only bad for your health, but it can also turn your beautiful white veneers to an ugly yellow colour. To ensure they maintain their white colour well into the future, avoid chewing tobacco or smoking cigarettes.
Get a Good Mouth Guard
If you play contact sports or enjoy recreational activities, it’s a good idea to get a mouth guard to protect your veneers in case you endure any contact in the face. You should also consider getting a guard if you grind your teeth at night. A mouth guard can also help prevent you from cracking the veneer when you clench or grind in your sleep.
Be Conscientious of What You Eat
Although veneers are strong, they’re not as strong as your natural teeth are. So it’s crucial to avoid hard candy, as well as crunchy and chewy foods that can cause damage to your veneers. Generally speaking, you should only use your back teeth to chew once you get dental veneers.
Avoid Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Did you know that alcohol can actually soften the bonding composite that holds the veneer to your tooth? Alcohol can, in fact, cause the bonding to deteriorate faster, so it’s best to avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol when you have veneers and chip fillings.
Stop Biting Your Nails
Gnawing at your fingernails will only add unnecessary force to your veneers. If you’re a constant nail biter, try purchasing an anti-chew nail polish to avoid accidentally chipping or removing your veneer.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Do you still open bottles or plastic wrappers with your teeth? Now’s the time to kick the habit for good. Not only will it damage your veneer but it’s also an easy way to welcome harmful bacteria into your mouth.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
If you want your veneers and chip fillings to stay in tip-top shape for decades, you need to visit your dentist regularly. Be sure to see your dentist at least twice a year so they can access the condition of your veneers and correct any problems before they become serious ones.
Veneers and chip fillings are an excellent way to address a number of aesthetic issues, from cracks to discolouration, while also improving the function of your teeth. They are a popular option because they are more affordable than dental implants but still offer maximum strength and durability, and can last for several years with the proper care and maintenance. If you’ve been considering getting veneers or have just received your first one, our skilled team will help you understand how to properly maintain them so they can look as good as new years down the road. Contact us today to set up an appointment!
Read More: