Dental veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are designed to mimic the appearance of natural teeth. To maximize their effectiveness, patients should learn how to care for them. These appliances are used to enhance the appearance of the smile by covering flaws, such as broken, discolored, chipped, or gapped teeth. With proper care, such dental work can last for 10 to 15 years.

8 tips for dental veneer care

A consistent maintenance routine can help prevent this dental work from becoming damaged or changing in appearance. These eight guidelines can help patients properly care for dental veneers:

1. Maintain proper oral hygiene

The dental work itself will not decay, but without a consistent oral hygiene routine, the exposed portions of the teeth may. Patients should brush the teeth twice per day, rinse with mouthwash after every meal, and floss daily.

2. Do not chew on hard objects

Veneers are not as strong as natural teeth. Chewing on hard objects, such as fingernails, pens, pencils, or ice, can damage dental work.

3. Avoid consuming foods that cause stains

While these appliances are stain-resistant, the material used to attach the dental work to the teeth is not. Consuming foods that cause stains, such as tea, coffee, or soda, can result in the edges of the veneers becoming dark or yellow.

4. Use a soft toothbrush and nonabrasive whitening toothpaste

Using a toothbrush with hard bristles or abrasive toothpaste can damage the polish on dental work. Use a soft-bristled brush and consult with a dentist about safe kinds of whitening toothpaste. To keep the shade of the natural teeth matching the veneers, a whitening toothpaste is recommended, but avoid toothpastes that contain gritty substances. A dentist can provide a tutorial on how to clean the teeth without damaging the dental appliance.

5. Get regular dental checkups

Visiting a dentist for a checkup every six months helps keep the teeth and gums healthy and provides the dentist with an opportunity to inspect the dental work and make any needed repairs or adjustments. The patient also can address any concerns that may have arisen.

6. Do not grind or clench the teeth

Grinding and clenching teeth can severely damage the porcelain in dental work. Patients who have issues with grinding or clenching the teeth should discuss treatment options with a dentist.

7. Stop smoking

Smoking can lead to stains and discoloration. To avoid damaging the dental appliance, do not use tobacco products.

8. Take steps to prevent gum disease

Gum disease can cause the gums to recede. Receding gums may partially expose the appliance, degrading the overall appearance of the smile. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits can protect against gum disease.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates in New York, NY

Conclusion

Following these eight tips for proper maintenance of your dental veneers can help you avoid premature wear and tear, stains, and other issues that could shorten the life of the dental appliance and degrade the appearance of the smile. A dentist can provide additional guidance if needed.

Request an appointment or call New York Dental Office at 212-548-3261 for an appointment in our New York office.

Recent Posts

Dental Veneers To Fix A Gap Between Teeth

Porcelain veneers and porcelain laminates are other names for dental veneers. These are tooth-colored, thin, custom-made casings dentists apply to the visible part of one’s teeth. The purpose of which is to make the teeth appear more appealing. These laminates are bonded to one’s teeth. And since they are connected, they also have better length, color,…

How Are Veneers Replaced?

Dental veneers, ceramic or composite shells that fit over teeth to restore damage or make cosmetic corrections, are a long-lasting, durable treatment, but do eventually need to be replaced. This guide covers some of the questions patients often have about replacing this dental work.Not every set of veneers lasts the same amount of time, but…

How Do Veneers Work?

Veneers are an excellent option for individuals seeking a permanent treatment that makes their teeth more attractive. A smile is often one of the first features noticed about a person; unfortunately, many dental issues can dim that happy look. Teeth may become stained from eating and drinking various types of food and drink over time.…

Corey Brick, DDS

Share
Published by
Corey Brick, DDS

Recent Posts

How to Clean and Maintain Your Dentures for Optimal Oral Health

Dentures are the way to go if you are looking for an affordable way to…

4 days ago

Choosing an Adult Orthodontics Option

Having an attractive smile will give you a boost of confidence, and adult orthodontics may…

4 days ago

3 Signs You Need Your Dentures Relined

The need for relining your dentures may not occur to you because of your busy…

6 days ago

Types of Dentures: Which Is the Best Option for You?

Dentures can replace teeth right away. It is a common solution to tooth loss. Because…

2 weeks ago

What to Expect After Getting Full Dentures

Full dentures can replace the teeth of each dental arch. Your gums and saliva will…

2 weeks ago

What to Expect When Getting Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are one of the missing teeth replacement options you get to choose from…

3 weeks ago