Porcelain veneers are the perfect option for correcting many aesthetic imperfections with your smile. They can conceal discolored, chipped, or worn-down teeth, and can give you a beautifully uniform smile. Taking care of your veneers is just as important as taking care of your natural teeth, and will ensure long-lasting results.
Maintaining Proper Oral Hygiene
Porcelain veneers are relatively durable, and should be maintained just as you would your natural teeth. Continue to brush and floss normally, and use non-abrasive toothpaste. Although the veneers are immune to cavities, the surfaces of the teeth that still show, and the surrounding teeth can succumb to tooth decay.
Avoiding Stains and Yellowing
One of the benefits of porcelain veneers is that they’re incredibly stain resistant, but not stain proof. It also means, however, that they’re also resistant to whitening treatments. Follow these tips for reducing discoloration:
- Avoid smoking. Nicotine yellows porcelain veneers the same as it does with natural teeth. Smoking can yellow your new veneers in just a matter a months.
- Limit your coffee and tea intake, and brush your teeth immediately after consumption.
- Eat plenty of whole fruits and vegetables. Crunchy fruits and vegetables, like celery, are great at removing plaque from your teeth.
Preventing Chipping
If you have or develop bruxism, the tendency to grind your teeth at night, we can fit you with a mouth guard. Although the veneers are very durable, they are not as durable as your natural teeth. Avoid biting into hard objects that might chip your teeth, like pens, ice, or your nails. It’s also important to wear a mouth guard if you play contact sports to prevent damage.
In the event of chipping or breakage, it’s important to visit the dentist immediately. Sometimes small fractures can be repaired, but often the veneer will need replacement.
Get Regular Check Ups
It’s important to maintain regular dental visits for cleanings, and so we can assess and repair them if needed. Getting veneers is an irreversible cosmetic procedure, so it’s important to care for them properly. With proper care, they last between five and ten years before needing to be replaced.
If you’re interested in getting porcelain veneers, or if you’d like further care instruction, contact Shoreline Dental Studio in San Clemente, California.
