Porcelain veneers can transform your smile by concealing discoloration, chips, gaps, and other cosmetic imperfections. But while veneers are designed to be durable, they aren’t indestructible. Taking good care of them can help you protect your investment and enjoy your new smile for years to come.
Fortunately, caring for veneers isn’t dramatically different from caring for your natural teeth. A few smart habits can go a long way toward keeping your veneers looking and feeling their best.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Your veneers may be resistant to staining and decay, but the teeth underneath them and the surrounding gums still need protection. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
Don’t forget about your gumline, either. Keeping your gums healthy can help protect the teeth supporting your veneers and contribute to a healthy-looking smile.
If you’re unsure which oral care products are best for your veneers, ask your dentist for recommendations.
Be Careful With Hard Foods
Porcelain veneers are strong, but biting directly into very hard foods can put unnecessary stress on them. Avoid using your front teeth to bite down on things such as ice, hard candy, or other particularly hard objects.
You don’t necessarily have to eliminate all of your favorite crunchy foods. Instead, consider cutting harder foods into smaller pieces and chewing them with your back teeth when appropriate.
And remember: your teeth should never be used as tools. Opening packages or biting through things with your veneers can increase the risk of chipping or damaging them.
Don’t Ignore Teeth Grinding
Do you clench or grind your teeth, particularly while you’re sleeping? Bruxism can place significant pressure on both natural teeth and veneers.
If you grind your teeth, talk with your dentist. They may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your smile while you sleep. Addressing grinding can help reduce unnecessary wear and protect your veneers from excessive forces.
Keep Up With Dental Visits
Regular dental appointments are important even after you’ve achieved your dream smile. During routine visits, your dentist can check your veneers, examine the underlying teeth and gums, and identify potential problems before they become more serious.
Professional cleanings can also remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing can’t completely eliminate.
Your dentist can also let you know if there are changes in your bite or other concerns that could affect the longevity of your veneers.
Watch What You Drink
Porcelain itself is generally resistant to staining, but the teeth around your veneers can still become discolored. Beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, and cola can contribute to staining over time.
You don’t necessarily have to give them up completely. Drinking water afterward and maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce the amount of staining-causing residue left on your teeth.
If you’re concerned about keeping your smile consistently bright, ask your dentist about the best ways to maintain your results.
Give Your Smile the Care It Deserves
Veneers can be a long-lasting cosmetic dental treatment, but their lifespan depends in part on how well you care for them. Good oral hygiene, mindful eating habits, protection from grinding, and regular dental visits can all help you get the most from your investment.
Your veneers may have changed your smile, but the best way to maintain that transformation is with the same consistent care you give your natural teeth.
About the Practice
Zen Dental Care provides comprehensive dental services designed to help patients maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. The practice offers porcelain veneers as part of its cosmetic dentistry services, helping patients address aesthetic concerns and achieve a more confident smile. The dental team takes a personalized approach to treatment, working with patients to determine which options best fit their individual goals.
Call us at (973) 370-5221 or schedule your appointment online.