If you already have veneers or are planning to get them, your oral hygiene routine can help with the longevity of them. In addition to your oral hygiene routine there are other ways you can care for your dental veneers as they have the potential to last between ten to fifteen years. Below you will find the tips for how to care for your dental veneers to ensure they last.
How to Care for Your Dental Veneers
Veneers are custom-made, wafer-thin shells placed over your natural teeth. They are a tooth-colored material meant to enhance the look of your smile and cover any imperfections. They can change the color, shape, size, and length of your teeth. While dental veneers are a permanent solution to any issues with your teeth, they do need to be replaced every ten to fifteen years, depending on how they are cared for. Below are some of the most helpful tips to extend the life of your veneers and ensure they are properly taken care of.
No Smoking:
Smoking is bad for your overall health, including your oral health. It can impact your veneers similar to the way it can impact your natural teeth as chewing tobacco or smoking can cause stains and discoloration.
Oral Hygiene Routine:
It’s important for your dental and overall health to have a good oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing at least twice a day for two minutes with toothpaste that is right for your veneers. You should also floss at least once a day, and if you only floss once make it at night. Lastly, when you cannot brush your teeth after meals use mouthwash to sweep away any leftover food and harmful bacteria.
Proper Cleaning Products:
Choose a toothbrush that has soft bristles as they are gentle on your veneers. Anything else can impact the polish on your veneers. Talk with your dentist about what kind of toothpaste is right as certain toothpastes are far too abrasive for your veneers.
Dental Checkups:
It is recommended that you check in with your dentist at least every six months. This can help your dentist follow the progression of your veneers and help ensure they last. Many people often skip out on their checkups due to the longevity of veneers, but your dentist will also need to check on your gums and natural teeth to ensure they are healthy.
Things to Avoid:
While your veneers are highly durable, just like your teeth, it’s important to refrain from chewing on hard foods such as hard candy or ice. You should also avoid chewing on things like pens, pencils, or your nails as they can easily chip or damage your veneers. If you grind your teeth at night, be sure and talk with your dentist about options to avoid this as grinding or clenching your teeth can put unnecessary pressure on your veneers.
Foods to Avoid:
Certain foods can cause stains and discoloration on your veneers. Things like coffee, tea, soda, and dark juices can impact your veneers. Foods that are high in sugar or highly pigmented can also cause discoloration. If you don’t avoid these altogether, consume them in moderation and be sure and brush your teeth thirty minutes after you eat or drink them.
Thanks / Blog Post Credit
Thank you Glo Modern Dentistry for the fab post! Read the post on their site. Glo is a Hollywood dentist in the heart of LA. We love your site and blog posts Glo, informative and stylish to boot!
DLE – Veneers Burnaby Dentist
We offer cosmetic dentistry, including veneers in Burnaby, BC.
Contact us, we’d love to hear from you!
Read all of our blog posts on veneers.