Oral health is essential to overall well-being, and maintaining healthy teeth is crucial for a confident smile and proper chewing function. Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment that improves the appearance of your teeth by masking imperfections such as discoloration, chips, and small gaps.
However, dental veneers require proper care to maintain longevity and appearance like natural teeth.
Practice Good At-Home Oral Hygiene
An excellent oral routine is essential to maintain the health and lifespan of dental veneers. Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to remove any food particles or plaque that can accumulate around the veneers.
Flossing daily is also essential to clean the spaces between teeth and remove any debris that brushing may miss. To correctly floss veneers, first use a non-abrasive floss or interdental brush. Gently slide the floss between the veneers and natural teeth, curving it into a C-shape. Avoid sawing back and forth; gently glide up and down to prevent damage.
Avoid Hard or Sticky Food
Although veneers are strong, they can still be prone to damage from excessive force or pressure. Chewing on hard foods like ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy can cause the veneers to chip or crack. Sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum can also pull the veneers off, causing the dental cement to deteriorate and the veneer to detach from the teeth.
Opt for a healthy diet with soft and nutritious foods to help preserve your veneers. Limit your consumption of pigmented food and beverages to prevent staining since dental restorations cannot be whitened.
Wear a Mouthguard
A mouthguard provides a protective barrier between the teeth and external forces that can cause damage to the veneers. It cushions the impact of any blows to the mouth during sports, preventing the veneers from chipping or cracking.
If you grind your teeth while sleeping, a mouthguard can prevent the veneers from wearing down and keep them in good condition. Choose a mouthguard custom-fitted by a dentist to ensure a comfortable fit and maximum protection.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Ensure you schedule a dental appointment every six months so your dentist can check that the veneers are in good condition and functioning correctly. During the checkup, your dentist will examine the veneers for any signs of wear, damage, or discoloration and ensure they are still bonded to the teeth. If the veneers require repair or replacement, your dentist will prescribe treatment to prevent further damage.
The hygienist will perform a professional cleaning at your six-month checkup to remove plaque or tartar that can cause gum disease and discoloration.
Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Smoking can stain the cement that bonds the veneer to your tooth, causing the edges of the veneer to develop a brown or gray tinge. Excessive alcohol consumption can also cause staining and erosion, reducing the veneer’s lifespan. Limit or avoid smoking and alcohol consumption to preserve the veneers’ appearance and ensure their longevity.
Create a New Smile at A Dental Place
For high-quality, long-lasting dental veneers, visit A Dental Place. We use the latest dental technology to provide the best results so you can achieve a healthy and brighter smile.
Schedule an appointment with A Dental Place to enjoy the benefits of beautiful veneers that will enhance your smile and boost your confidence.
