Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic solution for enhancing your smile. Made from porcelain or composite resin, veneers are thin shells bonded to the front of your teeth to correct imperfections like chips, stains, gaps, or minor misalignment. While veneers are durable and can last 10 to 15 years or more, their longevity largely depends on how well you care for them. If you’ve invested in veneers, here’s how to get the most out of them and enjoy a flawless smile for years to come.
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
Even though veneers themselves don’t decay, the teeth underneath them still can. It’s essential to brush at least twice a day and floss daily to prevent cavities and gum disease, both of which can compromise the bond between your veneers and your natural teeth. Use a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface of the veneers, especially if they’re made of porcelain.
Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools
Your veneers are strong, but they’re not indestructible. Using your teeth to open packages, bite your nails, or chew on hard objects (like pens or ice) can cause chips or cracks. Treat your veneers with the same care you would your natural teeth – maybe even a little more.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, but the bonding material used to attach them isn’t completely immune to discoloration. To keep your veneers looking their best:
- Limit staining foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and soy sauce.
- Avoid tobacco use, which can stain both natural teeth and the bonding agent.
- Cut back on extremely hard or sticky foods that can damage the veneers or dislodge them.
Wear a Mouthguard if You Grind Your Teeth
Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) can put excessive pressure on your veneers and cause them to wear down or break. If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a custom mouthguard. This simple device can protect both your veneers and your natural teeth from damage.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Seeing your dentist every six months is crucial for maintaining oral health, and your veneers. During checkups, your dentist can monitor the condition of your veneers, clean around them thoroughly, and catch any issues early. If you feel any looseness, sensitivity, or notice changes in your veneers, don’t wait – schedule a visit right away.
Avoid Whitening Products
Whitening treatments don’t work on veneers. In fact, they can create uneven coloration between your veneers and your natural teeth. If you’re planning to whiten your teeth, do it before getting veneers so your dentist can match them to your desired shade.
Veneers can dramatically improve your smile, but their beauty and durability depend on how you care for them. With good oral hygiene, protective habits, and regular dental visits, you can maximize the lifespan of your veneers and keep your smile looking brilliant for years.
About the Practice
Ready to give yourself a smile makeover? At Coats Dental Group of Longmont, our expert team of professionals can fix chips, cracks, misalignment, and other cosmetic imperfections with dental veneers. Rejuvenate your smile and give yourself that boost of confidence you’ve been missing in as little as two visits to our office. Give us a call to schedule your appointment today at (303) 776-4090 or visit our website.