How to Care for Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a beautiful addition to your smile. These natural-looking sleeves of porcelain slide over and are bonded to the face of your tooth to correct damaged, discolored, or crooked teeth. While veneers are durable and long lasting, they still require maintenance and proper oral care, just as your natural teeth do. By keeping the following in mind, you can assure that your veneers will keep you smiling for years.

Continue Proper Brushing and Flossing

Good at-home oral care starts and revolves around proper brushing and flossing. This principle must also be applied to your veneers. Even though veneers will not decay, the tooth it is bonded to will unless you practice consistent brushing and flossing. This means that you should brush your teeth at least twice a day (after every meal if possible) with a soft, extra soft, or electric toothbrush, and floss at least once a day (before bed is preferable) to keep both your veneers and natural teeth looking and feeling healthy.

Avoid Smoking

Usage of any tobacco products will affect the lifespan and appearance of your veneers. Smoking not only stains your beautiful white smile, but it can also be detrimental to the underlying teeth responsible for keeping your veneers in place.

Limit Tooth Staining Foods

Foods such as soda, coffee, tea, and wine are known to stain teeth. Consuming them in moderation and brushing or rinsing your teeth soon after having these drinks can help avoid staining both the veneers and your natural teeth.

Stop Biting Your Nails

Biting your nails and similar bad habits damage both your veneers and natural teeth. Chewing on any non-edible item can wear down the surface of your veneers and cause them to chip or crack.

Use a Mouthguard

Essential for patients that grind their teeth at night, a mouth guard can help protect and prolong the lifespan of your veneers. While you can get a mouthguard at any drug store, custom-made mouthguards from your dentist will better protect your beautiful smile.

Schedule Routine Check Ups and Cleanings

The best way to ensure that your veneers are staying healthy is to treat them the same as you would your natural teeth. Routine dental check ups and cleanings, meaning appointments twice a year, will keep your entire smile looking its best.