6 Tips for Maintaining Dental Veneers | Vibrant Dental

6 Tips for Maintaining Dental Veneers

Many people choose dental veneers to dramatically transform their teeth and give them the smile of their dreams. However, a perfect smile doesn’t stop the moment you leave your final veneer appointment. Dental veneers, while they are nearly as simple to care for as your natural teeth, require proper maintenance to keep them in excellent condition.

Custom-shaped, porcelain veneers are made to last for years and years, but like typical teeth, they aren’t immune to breaks, stains, chips, wear, and tear. Give your set of white, uniform teeth the best chance at a longer, stronger life with these helpful dental veneer maintenance tips.

1. Stick to a Good Routine

If you’re already in the habit of brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a dentist-approved mouthwash twice daily or after meals, you’re much more likely to keep your mouth and your veneers clean and clear from the harmful plaque and bacteria that contribute to dental decay and deterioration.

Keep up a consistent dental hygiene routine as you would with your natural teeth, but make sure to use only safe, alcohol-free products that will not compromise the veneers or bonding agents that keep them strong and sturdy.

2. Avoid Chewing Hard Materials

Porcelain is an incredibly durable material, but chewing on ice or using your veneers to open packaging or bottles may result in cracks and chips that can send you back to your dentist for unexpected repairs and replacements.

As well, broken veneers can be painful or difficult to manage. Say no to biting on hard candies, chewing whole nuts, or munching on ice to ensure your veneers remain intact.

3. Care for Your Gums

While taking care of your new set of veneers is important, it’s just as important to care for your gums and the soft tissues of your mouth. Periodontal disease is one of the leading causes of health-related tooth loss, and no matter how white and healthy your veneers look, they may not remain safely in your gums should your gum health become compromised.

Your smile is vulnerable to gum disease whether you have veneers or not. Talk to your dentist about the best ways to care for your gums, as not all gum disease prevention methods or treatments may be right for you.

4. Use the Right Dental Care Tools

Porcelain veneers are coated with a special polish that helps them to stay white and shiny, so it’s important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to avoid unnecessary wear on the surface.

Additionally, keep a fluoride or whitening toothpaste on hand to clear away stains and plaque buildup, as veneers are still susceptible to bacteria accumulation and stains caused by diet, lifestyle, and other habits.

5. Avoid Teeth Grinding and Clenching

It’s no secret that jaw tension and teeth grinding can cause headaches and facial discomfort, but these habits can also cause your veneers to wear down significantly. If you tend to grind your teeth at night, it’s a good idea to invest in a custom-fitted night guard to protect the surface of your teeth from the resulting friction and damage.

In the daylight hours, there are many things you can do to cut down on jaw clenching and grinding, including stress management techniques, jaw massages, and facial stretches that release tension and minimize the temptation to grind or clench your teeth.

6. Get Regular Dental Checkups

Your veneers may be made of durable materials that will not decay the same way your natural teeth would, but it’s still important to see your dentist regularly to make sure your veneers are free from any issues and your oral health is in good condition.

Many dental issues can only be detected and treated by your dental care team, so make sure to keep up with your biannual checkup appointments.

Your Veneer Dentist

Dental veneers are an investment worth caring for, so finding a dentist you can trust to help you to keep them in excellent shape is important. The experienced team at Vibrant Dental can help. Call our practice to schedule an appointment today!

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