Dental News

How to Keep Your Veneers Strong and Looking Beautiful for Years

August 11, 2014

Veneers Strong and BeautifulVeneers have earned a reputation as a highly attractive and durable tooth replacement. It is not surprising that many people think they only have to engage in normal oral hygiene routines to keep their veneers beautiful and functional. However, basic care is not necessarily enough to protect your veneers. If you have recently received veneers, it is critical that you understand how to properly look after them.

Avoid Top Causes of Damage

If properly cared for, veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. However, several seemingly harmless things can cause veneers to become stained or begin deteriorating prematurely. These include:

  1. Aggressive brushing. If you use toothpaste that contains harsh chemicals, such as whitening toothpaste, you may damage your veneers. Similarly, a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard can cause damage.
  1. Staining foods and beverages. You should avoid or limit coffee, red wine, dark teas, soda, and other beverages that may cause stains.
  1. Alcohol. Alcohol can weaken the resin that anchors veneers to your teeth. Even the small amount of alcohol found in certain types of mouthwash can have damaging effects over time, so make sure you choose an alcohol-free mouthwash.
  1. Chewing hard items. Porcelain veneers can fracture, so you should avoid chewing ice, nuts, and hard candies. You should also avoid using your teeth as tools to do things such as opening bottles, cutting string, or stripping wires.
  1. Direct trauma. If you participate in contact or high-impact sports, you should wear a mouthguard to protect your veneers.

These are the most common sources of veneer damage, but they are not the only mistakes that can lead to early deterioration or discoloration. Veneers are far from impervious to damage, so you should speak with a dental professional about any questions or concerns you have after veneer placement.

Head Off Oral Health Problems

Oral health problems can damage the gum tissue and natural teeth that support your veneers. Unfortunately, veneers may raise your risk of certain conditions. The formation of cavities is one common problem. Although a porcelain veneer cannot decay, any parts of your tooth left exposed can. Periodontal disease is another potential risk. It can be easy for bacteria to accumulate in the small space between your gum tissue and the edge of the veneer. Visiting a dentist at least twice a year for a dental exam is the easiest way to catch any problems early.

Enjoy Lasting Results

With this knowledge and a little effort, it should be easy for you to enjoy functional and attractive veneers for years to come. If you need to speak with a dental professional about potential issues with your veneers, or if you simply are due for a cleaning, we encourage you to call California Dental Group today. We will be happy to set up a consultation and help you understand the best ways to protect your veneers in the long term.

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