There is a range of ways to correct imperfections with your smile. Porcelain veneers are a popular option since they can fix a range of cosmetic issues, including chips, cracks, discoloration, alignment problems, gaps, and misshapen teeth. These durable shells are made from dental-grade porcelain and are attached to the front surface of the teeth after a small amount of enamel is removed to make them fit snuggly. Veneers can last upward of 15 years with proper care, but there are several ways to extend their lifespan even more. Read on to learn three tips to make your porcelain veneers last.
Tip #1: Practice Good Oral Hygiene
If you don’t brush twice per day and floss your teeth every night, this can mean bad news for your oral health. For those who have porcelain veneers, not brushing for two minutes in the morning and at night makes you more likely to develop cavities. If your teeth with veneers on them decay, they will have to be removed so your dentist can administer treatment. Practicing good oral hygiene will keep oral health issues at bay.
Tip #2: Use Different Toothpaste
Though whitening toothpastes may help brighten your smile a bit, they often contain abrasives like baking soda or charcoal. Not only will these not whiten your veneers, but they may even scratch them. Veneers are color-matched to the rest of your smile, so they should blend in seamlessly. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging them by accident.
Tip #3: Watch What You Eat
If you chew on ice cubes on a hot day, the tip of your pen while working, or other hard things, this can lead to damage to both your natural teeth and your veneers. To extend the lifespan of your veneers, don’t chew on overly hard or non-food items. Additionally, though veneers are highly stain resistant, it’s still wise to cut back on the number of dark or highly pigmented foods and drinks you consume. When you decide to indulge in dark beverages like coffee or cola, drink them through a straw to limit the amount of contact they have with your smile.
Along with the above tips, make sure to visit your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. These biannual visits will allow them to ensure that your veneers still look good so you can sport a gorgeous, brag-worthy grin for years to come!
About the Practice
Summerlin Center for Aesthetic Dentistry offers patients a comfortable, stress-free dental office experience from the moment they enter the building. Drs. Pamela West and Stephanie Gorczyca offer a range of cosmetic dental procedures to improve the look of your smile, including porcelain veneers to correct imperfections. You’ll be sporting a healthy, happy smile you love in no time! If you’re ready to schedule an appointment with Summerlin Center for Aesthetic Dentistry or want to learn more about the lifespan of your veneers, call (702) 240-0400 or visit their website today.