How to Take Care of Your Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a great way to improve your smile. At Westside Dental Center in Plantation, FL, we’re proud to offer high-quality veneers that can transform your teeth. These thin porcelain shells cover the front of your teeth, giving you a natural and bright look.
With proper care, you can help your veneers last longer and keep your smile looking its best. If you’d like more tips on how to maintain porcelain veneers, call Dr. Uttma Dham at (954) 251-0640 to schedule a consultation.
Keep Up with Brushing and Flossing
Good oral hygiene is key to taking care of your veneers. Brushing and flossing daily helps prevent plaque buildup, which protects both your natural teeth and the veneers. Brush at least twice a day with gentle motions to avoid scratching the surface of the veneers. Hold the soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to clean your gum line and the veneers thoroughly.
Don’t forget to floss. Flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth. Use floss that slides smoothly so you don’t risk damaging the veneers.
Pick the Right Toothpaste and Mouthwash
The products you use for oral care can impact the lifespan of your veneers.
- Avoid abrasive toothpaste: Toothpaste with ingredients like baking soda or charcoal can scratch the porcelain. Instead, use non-abrasive, fluoride toothpaste to protect your veneers and strengthen your natural teeth.
- Choose non-alcoholic mouthwash: Alcohol-based mouthwash can damage or discolor the veneers. A non-alcoholic option is gentler on both the porcelain and your gums.
If you’re unsure which products to use, ask Dr. Dham for recommendations during your next visit.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
What you eat and drink plays a big role in keeping your veneers in great shape. Avoid staining beverages. Drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and soda can stain your veneers. If you enjoy these drinks, try using a straw to limit contact with your teeth.
Also stay away from hard or sticky foods. Foods like nuts, hard candy, and caramel can chip or loosen your veneers. Choose softer, tooth-friendly foods instead to keep them intact.
Protect Your Veneers from Damage
Certain habits can increase the risk of damaging your veneers.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools: Avoid opening packages or bottles with your teeth, as this can crack the porcelain.
- Stop chewing on hard objects: Habits like chewing on ice, pens, or fingernails can put unnecessary stress on your veneers.
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth: Teeth grinding can damage your veneers over time. A custom-fit night guard can protect your teeth while you sleep. Ask Dr. Dham about getting a night guard made just for you.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Routine dental check-ups are an important part of maintaining your veneers. Professional cleanings every six months remove plaque and tartar that brushing alone can’t reach. At Westside Dental Center, our hygienists use tools designed to clean veneers gently and effectively.
The dentist will always check the condition of your veneers. During your visit, Dr. Dham will examine your veneers. She will make sure they’re still bonded securely and don’t have any damage. Catching small issues early can save you time and money in the long run.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Accidents can happen, even when you’re careful. If a veneer gets damaged, contact Westside Dental Center right away. Avoid chewing on the affected tooth, and don’t try to fix it yourself, as this can make the problem worse.
You should also keep emergency contact info handy. For urgent veneer issues, Dr. Dham and the team are here to help. Save our office number so you’re ready to call as soon as an issue arises: (954) 251-0640.
Keep Your Veneers Looking Their Best
Caring for your porcelain veneers involves daily oral hygiene, smart eating habits, regular dental visits, and knowing how to handle emergencies. At Westside Dental Center, we will help you maintain your veneers and keep your smile stunning. Call our office today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how veneers can transform your smile.