Veneers are an incredibly popular solution to upgrade your grin because they can fix multiple issues all at one time. These thin ceramic covers are bonded to the front of your teeth to mask chips, discoloration, cracks, or minor gaps. Plus, they’re color-matched to your natural pearly whites so that no one will notice they’re there.
Unfortunately, most dental insurance plans don’t cover veneers because they’re considered an elective cosmetic procedure not essential for oral health. When you’ve invested time and resources into a treatment, it’s natural to want to do everything you can to make it last. Keep reading for 3 tips to help keep your veneers in excellent condition so you can enjoy your newly perfected smile longer!
Tip #1: Implement an At-Home Oral Hygiene Routine
If you don’t already have one in place, now’s the perfect time to start a consistent at-home dental care routine. Although your veneers are made of ceramic and cannot get cavities, the tooth they’re bonded to can develop decay or gum disease. If your pearly white becomes too damaged or your gums recede too far, the porcelain could loosen or fall off.
To prevent this, you should brush and floss your teeth every morning and night to remove harmful bacteria and plaque buildup. It’s also a good idea to schedule a routine checkup with your dentist every 6 months so they can catch and address any areas of concern before they progress.
Tip #2: Watch What You Eat
Veneers are known to be incredibly resilient because they’re coated with a glaze so durable that it resists staining and chipping. They’re not invincible, however, and biting or eating certain foods can harm them. For example, you might want to avoid anything overly hard that can crack them when you bite down. Sugary foods attract harmful bacteria that contribute to cavities, so you may also want to keep those to a minimum.
It’s also worth noting that your natural teeth are more porous than the porcelain covers so they’ll stain more easily. If you want to avoid an unevenly shaded smile, you should steer clear of dark foods and drinks known to cause discoloration. Some common culprits include coffee, tea, wine, blueberries, and food dyes.
Tip #3: Try Not to Grind Your Teeth
Many people suffer from chronic teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, which can put their teeth and veneers at risk. If you tend to have a stiff or sore jaw when you wake up in the morning, you could be unconsciously clenching your pearly whites together at night while you sleep. All the added pressure can wear down your veneers prematurely which leaves them more vulnerable to physical damage like cracks or breaks. If you’re concerned that this may be an issue for you, your dentist can provide an oral appliance like a nightguard to protect your grin.
Your veneers can last 30+ years with the right care and making these simple adjustments can go a long way toward extending their lifespan!
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Rowley has more than 10 years of experience providing local families with a full array of services to meet their dental needs. He graduated from Florida State University in 2005 and then went on to earn his Doctor of Dental Medicine at Nova Southeastern University in 2010. Now, he combines state-of-the-art technology with a warm and welcoming atmosphere to provide top-quality services while enhancing patient comfort. He also offers flexible financing so that your budget doesn’t keep you from your ideal smile. If you’re interested in veneers and would like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (321) 723-1772.