Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dental solution that can help you achieve a brighter and more symmetrical smile. Crafted from durable ceramic material, these ultra-thin shells are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth. Getting veneers correct imperfections like discoloration, chips, or gaps. But you also have to know how to care for porcelain veneers after treatment in our Franklin, MI, dental office.
Porcelain veneers last between 10 to 15 years with proper care, but how well they age largely depends on the habits and routines of the wearer. Dr. Jomana Shayota has tips so your veneers continue to shine and stay beautiful.
6 Tips to Maintain Your New Veneers
You want your new teeth to last for years. Follow these tips to keep your veneers beautiful and bright. If you have any issues or questions about how to care for your veneers, call us and we’ll be happy to help.
Brush and Floss Daily
Even though veneers themselves are not prone to decay, the teeth underneath and the surrounding gum tissue still are. Proper oral hygiene is important because it prevents cavities, gum disease, and plaque buildup. All these problems can jeopardize the bond between the veneer and your natural tooth.
We recommend that you brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily at least once before you brush. We also recommend that you visit Dr. Shayota for regular cleanings and check-ups to detect potential issues early.
Avoid Using Teeth as Tools
Porcelain veneers are strong, but they are not meant to handle extra pressure beyond normal eating and speaking. Many people don’t realize how often they use their teeth as tools.
Biting your nails, chewing on pens or ice, or using your teeth to open packages can put too much stress on your veneers. Over time, this added pressure can cause veneers to chip, crack, or loosen. Avoid these bad habits and your veneers are less likely to wear down or break.
Choose Your Foods Wisely
While porcelain is a strong material, it’s not indestructible. Hard foods like ice, hard candies, and unpopped popcorn kernels can cause damage if bitten into directly.
Similarly, very sticky or chewy foods can tug at the edges of veneers and weaken the adhesive bond over time. We recommend that you cut food into smaller, manageable pieces. Also, chewing with the back teeth rather than the front teeth to minimize unnecessary strain.
Minimize Staining Agents
Dental veneers are strong and resist most stains, but the bonding material that holds them in place can still discolor over time. To keep your veneers looking bright and natural, it’s a good idea to be mindful of foods and drinks that can cause staining. Red wine, coffee, tea, and tobacco are common culprits.
You don’t have to completely give up your favorite treats. If you do enjoy something that could stain, try rinsing your mouth with water afterward or brushing your teeth soon after. This simple step helps reduce the chance of discoloration and keeps your veneers looking fresh.
Protect Your Smile at Night
If you grind your teeth at night, you may be damaging your veneers while you sleep. Over time, teeth grinding can wear down or even crack the porcelain.
Dr. Shayota can create a custom-made night guard. The guard offers a protective barrier and can reduce wear and tear on your teeth. This small preventive step can make a large difference in how long your veneers remain in top shape.
Stay Regular with Dental Visits
Routine dental visits are key to veneer maintenance. During these appointments, Dr. Shayota checks your veneers to make sure they are secure, comfortable, and functioning properly. She also performs professional cleanings to remove plaque and buildup from areas that are hard to reach with brushing and flossing alone.
These visits give Dr. Shayota the chance to catch small issues early. If a veneer becomes loose, chipped, or starts to wear down, she can address it before it becomes a larger problem.
Porcelain Veneer Care in Franklin, MI
At Dental House and Aesthetics, we want you to achieve and maintain the smile of your dreams. If you just received veneers in our office and have questions, please let us know.
You can also call us today at (248) 963-7925. Feel free to schedule a consultation and learn more about your cosmetic dentistry treatment options.