Veneers Aftercare: 4 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Brand New Smile
Porcelain veneers can improve smiles for individuals with tooth discoloration, chips and cracks, minor misalignments, and disproportionately sized teeth. However, while veneers are a long-term solution, they are not permanent.
Our Brookline, MA, patients can keep their veneers looking white and bright for 15 years or longer by following these simple porcelain veneers aftercare tips.
1. Brush and Floss Daily
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that individuals brush their teeth twice a day and floss twice daily. These recommendations are also appropriate for Brookline dental patients who have porcelain veneers. To provide maximum protection to the veneers, it is recommended that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. The use of an electric toothbrush is fine and provides the benefit of controlling the pressure of the bristles against the teeth and veneers.
Brushing too hard, too long, or with a stiff-bristled toothbrush can scratch the veneers. It can also damage the enamel on teeth that have not been covered by a veneer, creating additional damage.
2. Visit the Dentist Every Six Months
In addition to brushing and flossing twice a day, the ADA also recommends that all individuals visit their dentist twice a year for an exam and cleaning. This recommendation also applies to those with porcelain veneers.
Your dentist can prevent plaque and tartar buildup on your real teeth and polish your veneers as well. Your dentist will also check to ensure that your veneers are properly bonded and in good shape.
3. Avoid Foods and Beverages that Can Stain Your Veneers
Porcelain veneers are less likely to become stained by foods or beverages than tooth enamel. However, while being more resistant to stains, porcelain veneers are not completely stain-proof. Stains most commonly occur where the edge of the veneer meets the teeth, or when the veneers have reached the end of their lifespan.
Because stains are possible, it is important to avoid heavy consumption of foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth, such as:
- Coffee and tea
- Wine
- Tomato sauce
- Curry
- Sports drinks
- Certain fruits and berries, including blackberries, blueberries, cherries, or pomegranates
- Soda and other carbonated drinks
- Hard candy
- Chewing gum
It should be noted that most of these foods and beverages can be consumed in moderation without harm to your porcelain veneers. Some of the items on this list--particularly fruits and berries--can are nutritious and a good source of antioxidants. However, moderation is key.
4. Avoid Bad Habits That Can Damage Veneers
The American Dental Association lists nail biting as one of the worst habits a person can have for their teeth. Nail biting can chip the teeth and the place pressure on the jaw that can cause other health issues down the road. Teeth grinding and clenching can also cause chips and cracks to the teeth, as can using your teeth as tools to pry open packages or containers.
While porcelain veneers are stronger than tooth enamel, the risk of this type of damage remains a concern.
Contact Whiteman Dental Associates to Learn More About Porcelain Veneers
If you are suffering from cracked, discolored, misaligned, or disproportionately sized teeth in Brookline, MA, and would like to know more about porcelain veneers and whether they would be an appropriate option for you, contact Whiteman Dental Associates online or by calling (617) 731-4746.
