Dental veneers are a life-changing investment that can improve your teeth’s alignment, color and shape for a perfect look. But getting veneers is a process that is just the beginning. Veneers can be made of porcelain or composite resin. Whichever material they are made of, Veneers need regular maintenance. This is because Veneers only cover half the tooth and so the other half is anyways prone to decay. The natural teeth under the veneers can still decay if they are not taken care of properly. They can chip, discolor or wear down fast if they are not maintained properly. Here are 7 essential ways to protect your Dental Veneers and keep a bright smile for years to come.
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Master Your Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
The natural tooth structure beneath and around the dental veneers can deteriorate but veneers cannot decay or deteriorate. Plaque and germs can build up around the gum line and the edges where the veneer and tooth touch. Here are some of the daily oral routines that can help you maintain your veneers.
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use a fluoride toothpaste that is not abrasive.
- Floss daily at least once. Move floss between each tooth. This helps to remove debris and plaque from the gum line.
- Try an alcohol-free mouthwash: Alcohol-based mouthwashes can weaken the bonding cement that holds your veneers in place. So make sure you use an alcohol free mouth wash.
Pay special attention to the gumline and the margins of your veneers: These are the most important areas that need to be watched out for to prevent gum inflammation and decay.
2. Avoid Hard and Crunchy Foods
Veneers are durable but that does not mean they will not break. Biting onto food or harsh objects can cause the delicate porcelain or composite material to chip or crack. Do not put nuts, popcorn kernels, hard candies and ice into your mouth. Never bite your nails or use your teeth as tools to open boxes. Do not bite into hard items like raw carrots and apples. It is better to cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces and relish them.
3. Be Careful of Staining Foods and Drinks
Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant. The bonding cement used to fix them to the natural teeth may eventually turn discolored. Veneers made of composite resin are more likely to get stained. Reduce your intake of coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sauces to maintain a bright smile. It pays to reduce contact with the veneer margins by rinsing your mouth with water after having your meal or any food you suspect can discolor your veneers.
4. Protect Your Veneers If You Grind Your Teeth
Teeth grinding is one of the most common causes of veneer deterioration. It is also known as bruxism. Excessive force due to teeth grinding or clenching may result in early wear, chipping or even cracking of the tooth. Check with your dentist about getting a custom-fitted nightguard. Do this if you know you grind your teeth at night or if you wake up with a sore jaw. This easy-to-use dental gadget can prevent serious harm to both your natural teeth and veneers.
5. Choose the Right Oral Care Products
Not every toothpaste is suitable for veneers. Do not try any whitening toothpastes because they are abrasive or contain charcoal, baking soda or grit that can potentially damage your veneers. Your veneers may become less glossy and less natural if these abrasive toothpaste scratches the polished veneer surface. Choose any mild and low-abrasion fluoride toothpaste that your dentist suggests.
6. Do Not Miss Your Regular Dental Checkups
Professional care from an experienced dentist is better for your veneers to be successful. Visit your dentist at least once every six months to get a thorough examination. Your dentist will also do expert cleaning if required. Your dentist will do the following during these appointments:
- Check the adhesion and integrity of your veneers
- Assess the health of your gums and underlying teeth
- Remove hardened plaque and calculus that daily brushing can miss
- Polish the surfaces of your veneers to restore their shine
7. Address Any Issues Promptly
Take note of how your veneers feel. Contact your dentist right away if you experience any loosening, rough edges, altered texture or heightened sensitivity to heat or cold. Giving early attention to a minor problem can stop it from growing into a bigger problem. In this way you would not end up making costly replacements.
Invest in Care for a Lasting Smile
Your veneers can last ten to fifteen years, or perhaps longer. This can be made possible with careful treatment. You are maintaining not only your veneers but also the health of your natural teeth. The self-assurance that comes with a beautiful smile is worth considering. If you are thinking about undergoing this cosmetic procedure, speak to Expert Dental Care who are known to provide quality Veneers in Chennai. By this you make sure you get professional care and direction at every stage.
