Properly caring for your porcelain veneers can help them last for many years without needing repair or replacement. And Dr. Robert Milner has some great news: porcelain veneers are actually very easy to care for! Read on as he explains how to maintain your veneers.
At-Home Oral Hygiene
Veneers cannot develop cavities, but the underlying tooth can, so it is important to maintain great at-home oral hygiene.
Veneers can be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth. Make sure you brush twice a day and floss once a day. Some people like to use a Water Pik water flosser to clean out bacteria and food debris that get stuck in between the teeth and below the gumline.
Putting a lot of pressure on your veneers may cause them to crack, chip or fracture. If you know that you grind or clench your teeth at night, get fitted for a custom mouthguard to protect your veneers from unnatural pressure. Similarly, if you play contact or collision sports, invest in a sports mouthguard to minimize the impact of any forces you may encounter.
Eating and Drinking
Veneers are very strong and enable you to enjoy nearly all of your favorite foods. However, if your front teeth are veneered, you might want to cut apples, corn on the cob and similar foods into smaller pieces before enjoying them. Also, you should avoid biting into shells, ice, pen caps or similarly hard objects.
Veneers do not stain like natural teeth, but consuming a lot of coffee, red wine, tea, cola, soy sauce and similar foods and beverages may cause them to discolor. Try to enjoy these foods and beverages in moderation. Smoking can also lead to staining, so it is best to quit the habit or avoid picking it up.
Dental Exams and Cleanings
You should see Dr. Milner every six months for an exam and a professional cleaning. Regular appointments give Dr. Milner the opportunity to check the integrity of your veneers and identify any potential problems early on, when they can be easily treated. Professional cleanings also help remove plaque from areas that your toothbrush and floss can miss.
Contact Dr. Robert Milner
If you have questions about caring for veneers, or if you are interested in getting them, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Milner. Contact our office to request an appointment.
