Tips on Caring for Your Veneers to Make Them Last

Dental veneers are an excellent way to achieve a beautiful, sparkling smile. These thin shells, which are usually made of porcelain or composite resin, are bonded to the front of your teeth to make them a uniform shade of white.

While dental veneers can last for decades, they require proper care to extend their lifespan for as long as possible. Here are some tips from Happy Family Dental Care to care for your veneers and make them last for many years to come.

Visit Your Cosmetic Dentist Regularly

Regular dental check-ups are essential to maintain your veneers and your oral health in general. Your cosmetic dentist can detect any potential issues with your veneers early on and give you steps to address the problem. Get in the habit of visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups, or more frequently if needed.

Practice Daily Oral Hygiene Habits

Just like your natural teeth, veneers need to be kept clean. This prevents plaque buildup and gum disease. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Brushing too hard can scratch your veneers, so find the right balance between a gentle and firm brushing motion. Floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.

Avoid Certain Foods and Beverages

Veneers can be vulnerable to staining or erosion, especially if they are made from composite resin. Limit your intake of foods with artificial coloring, plus tea, coffee, and red wine. If you do consume these, rinse your mouth with water immediately afterward to minimize staining of your veneers. Acidic foods and drinks can erode the bonding material over time, so avoid these as much as possible.

Wear a Mouthguard

If you clench or grind your teeth, wear a nightguard. Clenching and grinding can severely damage your veneers, as well as your natural teeth. Get a custom-fitted nightguard from your dentist, and reduce bruxism as much as possible by avoiding stress and practicing relaxation techniques.

Wear a Mouthguard

If you play contact sports or participate in other physical activities that may result in trauma to the teeth, wear a mouthguard. Getting a tooth knocked out is bad enough; it’s worse if that tooth also had an expensive veneer! Generic mouthguards can do the trick, but custom-fitted models offer the best comfort and protection.

Don’t Chew on Hard Objects

Be cautious when eating hard foods like ice, hard candies, or nuts, as these can chip or crack your veneers. Also avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles. That’s what knives and bottle openers are for, not your vulnerable enamel and porcelain.

Quit Smoking

Quitting smoking can significantly improve your oral health and the appearance of your smile. Smoking not only stains your natural teeth and veneers but also increases your risk of gum disease, which can compromise the longevity of your veneers. Avoid the yellowing and brown spots on your teeth that accompany smoking by making a resolution to quit.

By following these tips and regularly visiting your dentist, you can ensure that your dental veneers last for many years. At Happy Family Dental Care in Scottsdale, we serve patients across the Phoenix metro area. If you need further advice on caring for your veneers, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you build good oral care habits for a lifetime.