Porcelain veneers are a popular way to make your smile look better. They’re thin, custom-made shells that attach to the front of your teeth. Kind of like false fingernails but for your teeth! They look natural, are strong, and can really improve the way your smile looks.
But just like anything nice you own, you need to take care of them so they last. Even though veneers resist stains and can last a long time, how well you look after them will determine how great they look years from now. So, if you want your veneers to stay bright and strong, good daily care is super important.
Top Tips for Protecting Your Porcelain Veneers
So you got veneers to make your smile look awesome, nice! To keep them looking great and lasting a long time, here’s what you need to do.
Keep Those Teeth Clean
Just because veneers aren’t real teeth doesn’t mean you can skip brushing and flossing. The real teeth under them and your gums can still get cavities and gum disease. Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and gentle toothpaste and don’t forget to floss. Your dentist can suggest specific products too.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Veneers are strong, but they’re not unbreakable. Don’t bite your nails, chew on pens, or open packages with your teeth. Also try to avoid super hard foods, especially with your veneered teeth. If you grind your teeth at night, wear a night guard to protect your veneers while you sleep.
Watch What You Eat & Drink
Veneers themselves don’t stain easily, but the glue that holds them in place can slowly discolor over time, especially around the edges. Try to cut back on coffee, soda, red wine, and other dark drinks. If you do have them, rinse with water afterward. And definitely don’t smoke because it’s bad for your health and your smile.
Go to the Dentist Regularly
Don’t skip your dental check-ups. Your dentist will make sure your veneers are still in good shape and that there are no problems hiding underneath. They can also give your veneers a gentle polish during your cleaning to keep them shiny.
Use the Right Toothpaste & Mouthwash
Some toothpastes, like whitening or baking soda kinds, can be too rough and scratch your veneers. Same goes for alcohol-based mouthwashes because they can weaken the glue over time. Your dentist can recommend products that are safe for veneers.
If Something Feels Off, Speak Up!
If your veneers feel loose, rough, or different in any way, tell your dentist right away. It could be a sign that the veneer is damaged or that there’s a problem with the tooth underneath. Catching issues early makes them easier to fix. Taking good care of your veneers means you’ll get to enjoy your beautiful smile for a long time.
Wear a Mouthguard During Sports
Make sure to wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports like basketball, football, or skateboarding. Veneers can chip or crack if you take a hit to the face, and a mouthguard helps cushion your teeth and protect your smile. You can get a custom-fit guard from your dentist or even a boil-and-bite version from the store. Better safe than sorry!
Be Careful with Sticky or Chewy Foods
Foods like caramel, taffy, gum, or even chewy granola bars can put a lot of pressure on your veneers when you bite down. That sticky force could slowly loosen the veneer over time or even pull it off. It’s okay to enjoy these treats once in a while, but try to chew carefully and avoid using your veneered teeth too much when eating them.
Are Your Veneers in Good Condition?
At Carol Stream & Elgin Dental Associates, we offer modern dental veneers and veneer replacement services. Contact our Carol Stream or Elgin dental practice today to learn more about how to care for your new veneers.