Aftercare for Your Dental Veneers

One of the most popular smile makeover options is dental veneers, and for good reason. Dental veneers help recreate the look and feel of natural teeth while providing protection to the underlying tooth surface. When cared for properly, they can also last a lifetime. However, the keyword phrase here is “when cared for properly.” Patients who invest in a smile makeover can make sure the investment is worthwhile by taking measures to increase the restoration’s lifespan.

Tips for caring for dental veneers

It is crucial that, following the application of veneers, patients heed the advice that the dentist provides. Properly care can prevent premature wear and tear, stave off decay and increase the lifespan of the restoration.

Brush, floss and rinse as usual

Dentists urge patients to continue brushing, flossing and rinsing as normal following the application of dental veneers. Without a proper oral hygiene routine, the teeth beneath the covering can begin to discolor and decay. Not only will this impact the patient’s overall oral health but also, it can negatively affect the veneer’s appearance.

Though patients should maintain a normal oral hygiene routine, dentists do recommend that they avoid aggressive brushing and use a soft-bristled brush. Some dentists suggest that patients invest in an electronic toothbrush, as veneers hold up better under soft, circle strokes rather than wide, sweeping strokes.

Use a whitening but gentle toothpaste

Many patients may be tempted to use a harsh toothpaste with activated charcoal or abrasive qualities to remove surface stains, but such abrasive materials can actually harm the new veneers. The tiny particles in these types of toothpaste can scratch the surface of the veneers, which can cause the material to pick up and retain excess stain particles. This eventually leads to the undesired effect of discoloration.

Individuals with veneers should use a sensitivity formula or nonabrasive toothpaste that contains fluoride. Though whitening toothpaste will not change the color of the veneer, it can help to prevent new stains from developing.

Avoid stain-causing substances

Though porcelain veneers are designed to be stain-resistant, there are some substances that can break through the material's tough armor and cause discoloration. These are the same substances dentists warn patients with natural teeth to be wary of:

• Wine
• Coffee and tea
• Beets
• Berries
• Soda
• Cigarettes and tobacco

Patients who enjoy one or more of the above items should brush, floss and rinse immediately afterward to reduce the likelihood that stains will develop.  

Protect the teeth

Veneers, like natural teeth, are susceptible to damage from grinding, clenching and contact activity. Dentists may recommend that certain patients wear mouthguards to protect the teeth from potential danger and trauma. A mouthguard may be inconvenient at times, but it can drastically increase the lifespan of veneers.

Conclusion

Dental veneers are a durable, natural-looking and long-lasting restoration option. However, patients who want to realize the full potential of veneers should develop a strict oral hygiene routine and take additional measures to prevent premature wear, tear and damage. Talk to a dentist about measures you can take to keep your veneers in tip-top shape.

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