You love your new natural-looking smile and investing in porcelain veneers was a worthy investment. Want to keep smiling for as long as possible without landing up back at the dentist? Make sure you give them the proper care to prevent wear and tear from damage.
-
Avoid biting on hard items
Biting on inedible items such as pens can wear down your porcelain veneers and cause irreparable damage over time. Take note of any unconscious biting habits you might have and actions that can crack your teeth.
-
Treat your veneers to a professional polish and clean
A professional polish every few months will preserve the lifespan of your veneers. Dentists use high-quality products and utilise specialised equipment and cleaning techniques to ensure a thorough clean.
-
Reduce drinking teeth-staining drinks and using tobacco products
Certain foods and drinks increase the chances of your teeth and veneers staining. These include red wine, coffee, tea, soft drinks. Cigarettes and tobacco products are also commonly found to stain veneers.
-
Opt for high-quality whitening toothpastes
A non-abrasive toothpaste that includes a natural whitener as a key ingredient (such as baking soda) is effective for protecting your porcelain veneers from discolouration.
-
Have a night-time mouth guard fitted to prevent you from grinding your teeth
Grinding your teeth during sleeping is a cause for concern as it wears down your veneers, leaving the underlying area at risk for contact with harmful bacteria. Protect your veneers from the effects of grinding by having your dentist provide you with a night-time mouth guard.
-
Wear a mouth guard when playing sports
Certain sports (rugby, basketball) and activities put your veneers at risk. Wearing a mouth guard protects your mouth and teeth from potential trauma and the expense from having repair any damage caused.
-
Maintain an effective brushing and flossing routine
Even with veneers, without proper brushing and flossing, your mouth is still at risk of developing gum disease. Take care not to be aggressive in brushing or flossing as this can chip the veneer. A dentist can advise on suitable products to use and techniques to apply.
A regular check-up at the dentist is necessary to ensure your porcelain veneers are in excellent condition. Our dentists at Hawthorn Road Hawthorn Road Family Dental Clinic will provide you with care tips so that you can enjoy your porcelain veneers for a long time. Contact us today!
