Taking Care of Your Veneers
Veneers are a fantastic way to transform your smile, offering a durable solution for a wide range of dental imperfections, including chips, stains, gaps, and misshapen teeth. However, like any investment in your health and appearance, veneers require proper care to maintain their beauty and functionality over time. At Sheila L. Brush, DDS, PC, we want to ensure that every patient gets the most out of their treatment. Here are some expert tips from Sheila Brush dental professionals on how to take care of your veneers, ensuring they remain as stunning as the day they were placed.
Understanding Veneers
Before diving into care instructions, it’s important to understand what veneers are and how they work. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-made to fit over your teeth. They are adhered to the front surface of the teeth, creating a bright, even, and natural-looking smile. While veneers are designed to be durable and resistant to stains, they are not indestructible. Proper care is essential to avoid damage and extend their lifespan.
Daily Care and Maintenance
- Brushing and Flossing: Just like your natural teeth, veneers require regular brushing and flossing. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean your teeth at least twice a day. This helps prevent plaque buildup and maintains the health of the gums around your veneers. We recommend using gentle circular motions rather than aggressive scrubbing, which can damage the polish of your veneers.
- Avoid Hard Foods: While veneers are relatively durable, they are not as strong as natural tooth enamel. To avoid chipping or cracking your veneers, it’s wise to avoid biting into very hard foods such as candy apples, hard candies, or ice. Similarly, do not use your teeth as tools to open packaging or bite nails.
- Minimize Staining Substances: Though porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining, composite resin veneers may become discolored over time. To keep your veneers looking their best, minimize exposure to known staining agents like coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. If you do consume these substances, rinse your mouth with water afterward or brush your teeth if possible.
Regular Dental Checkups
- Professional Cleanings: Regular visits to your dentist are crucial when you have veneers. A professional cleaning every six months will help maintain not only the health of your veneers but also your overall oral hygiene. During these visits, your dentist can also check the integrity of your veneers, ensuring they remain securely bonded to your teeth and checking for any signs of potential issues.
- Annual Exams: During your annual dental exam, your Laytonsville dentist will inspect your veneers for any signs of wear or damage. This is a good time to discuss any concerns you may have about your veneers or your oral health in general.
Lifestyle Considerations
- Quit Smoking: Smoking can lead to tar and nicotine stains on your veneers, not to mention your natural teeth and gums. Quitting smoking will improve your oral health and help maintain the aesthetic quality of your veneers.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you play sports or have a tendency to grind your teeth at night (bruxism), wearing a mouthguard can provide protection for both your veneers and natural teeth. Sheila Brush dental professionals can provide you with a custom-fitted mouthguard that will be comfortable and effective.
Handling Damage or Issues
If you notice any chips, cracks, or detachment of your veneers, contact your dentist immediately. Do not attempt to fix or adjust your veneers yourself, as this could cause further damage. Professional repair or replacement of veneers is sometimes necessary, and the sooner you address any issues, the better the outcome will likely be.
Ensure the Longevity of Your Veneers
Caring for your veneers is not just about maintaining their appearance; it’s about preserving the health of your underlying teeth and gums as well. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your veneers will look great and last for many years. Remember, veneers are an investment in your smile, and taking care of them is taking care of your future self-confidence and oral health.
For more information or to schedule a consultation to discuss whether veneers are right for you, contact Sheila L. Brush, DDS, PC today. Our dedicated team is here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of with the care and expertise that the community of Laytonsville has come to expect from our practice.
