Caring for Your Veneers and Improving Your Treatment Results
Porcelain veneers provide a quick and long-lasting solution for stained, chipped, or misshapen teeth. What’s also great about them is that they don’t require extensive maintenance.
You can care for your veneers with these five easy tips:
Use a Soft Toothbrush and Proper Toothpaste
A hard-bristled toothbrush can cause the polish on your veneers to fade. Also, a hard-bristled brush can cause damage to your gums, which can expose part of the veneer. Therefore, opt for a soft bristle brush.
We also recommend switching to non-abrasive toothpaste. Try to avoid toothpaste with the following ingredients:
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Baking soda
- Calcium carbonate
- Alumina
Instead, choose a toothpaste that is formulated for sensitive teeth. These kinds of toothpaste have mild ingredients that are gentle on veneers. You can also choose non-abrasive gel toothpaste.
Avoid Staining
Porcelain veneers are designed to resemble natural teeth with protective tooth enamel. However, unlike natural teeth, they are non-porous — meaning they don’t stain as easily.
But this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t watch out for staining. Veneers can stain, but it just takes longer for them to become discolored.
To prolong the look of your veneers, it’s a good idea to limit consumption of the following:
- Red wine
- Coffee
- Tea
- Tobacco products
- Dark sodas
- Soy sauce
Doing this puts pressure and strain on your veneers, and it could cause chips and cracks.
Wear a Mouthguard for Teeth Grinding
Bruxism is the tendency to clench or grind your teeth while sleeping. This can cause damage to your veneers and natural teeth. If you suspect you have a habit of clenching your teeth, talk to your dentist about a mouthguard — or an occlusal guard.
Wearing an occlusal guard while you sleep will protect your veneers and teeth from damage.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Routine check-ups are important if you have porcelain veneers. Making it a priority to visit your cosmetic dentist every six months will ensure your veneers and natural teeth remain healthy.
If there are any potential issues with your veneers, your dentist can spot them quickly. Your dentist or dental hygienist can also polish your veneers and preserve their pearly-white glow.
Porcelain veneers are a low-maintenance way to make a tremendous improvement in your smile.
If you’re interested in learning about veneers, especially as part of a smile makeover, send us a message or call us at 310-652-8383.