Caring For Porcelain Veneers

If you've had your dentist provide you with porcelain veneers, you know that your teeth will look beautiful and that you've gained a bright new smile. This dental application involves applying a bonded coating to the teeth in order to make them look properly shaped and colored. They can make your smile look new again and give you a whole new confidence. If you have veneers, there are some ways you can ensure that your beautiful smile lasts a long time.

Proper Cleaning

Just like regular teeth, porcelain veneers should be brushed and flossed on a regular basis. If possible, brush and floss three times a day, particularly after meals. There is no special technique that you have to use while brushing, but it is important that you are very diligent in thoroughly cleaning your teeth on a regular basis. An electric pulsating toothbrush is recommended since it can scrub your veneers better than a manual toothbrush. Avoid using toothpaste that contains abrasives. Tooth decay will not affect the veneer itself, but it can affect the gums and the tooth underneath.

Biting Down

If you bite down too hard, it can cause the veneer to crack or separate from the natural tooth. Avoid bad habits like nail biting or chewing on things like straws. Do not crunch on ice, and try to avoid grinding your teeth. If you play sports, it is recommended that you wear a mouth guard to protect your veneers from getting damaged. 

Get Regular Check-Ups

Whether you have porcelain veneers or not, you should see your dentist, like Tore D Steinberg DDS PC, every six months for a routine check up. For patients who have veneers, the dentist can take a closer look at them and check for potential damage they might see. Going to the dentist regularly will help prolong the life of your veneers and will help you receive any preventative maintenance for them in the even that the dentist finds something that needs to be fixed such as loose bonding or other issues.

Avoid Stains

The actual veneer itself will most likely not become stained, but there is a special cement used to bond the veneers that is very susceptible to staining. If you drink a lot of tea or coffee, this can affect the bonding over time and cause discoloration. Avoid smoking cigarettes as well. If your bonding becomes stained, the only real way to correct it is to replace the entire veneer, which can be costly.