Caring for Your Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers can be used to either subtly enhance or dramatically transform the appearance of your smile. And fortunately, porcelain veneers can last for many years when they are cared for properly. The following habits will prolong the use of your veneers and keep your smile healthy for as long as possible.

Proper Dental Hygiene

You will need to keep your teeth clean and healthy once your veneers are placed. Daily brushing and flossing will protect the natural tooth structure supporting the veneers and prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Avoid Teeth-Staining Substances

Although most porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, in some cases, certain substances (such as red wine, coffee, tobacco, and certain medications) can cause discoloration. Moreover, if you have veneers placed on some (but not all) of your teeth, the natural teeth can become stained, necessitating teeth whitening to renew their luster.

Choose an Experienced Porcelain Veneers Dentist

It is important to choose a cosmetic dentist who has experience with porcelain veneers. Experienced porcelain veneers specialists are more able than general dentists to maintain veneers. In regular visits with your cosmetic dentist (up to four times per year), he or she will help keep the veneers polished and detect problems in their earliest stages.

Other Tips for Protecting Porcelain Veneers

To keep the veneers from chipping or wearing down, avoid habits such as chewing on ice, fingernail biting, and teeth grinding. Also avoid activities (such as contact sports) in which your veneers could be damaged, or wear a protective mouthguard if you do participate. Since cavities can develop under the veneers, it is also important to schedule regular dental checkups to detect tooth decay early on.

Locate a Dentist Offering Porcelain Veneers

Talk to a cosmetic dentist for more information on maintaining your smile for a lifetime. Locate an experienced cosmetic dentist near you.