Dental veneers are a popular option in dental restorations to effectively fix problems such as closing gaps in between teeth and disguising discolorations, chips, and other flaws. It’s an investment to get veneers, so naturally, you’ll want to maximize your results and prolong the life of your veneers as much as you can. With appropriate care, you can enjoy your veneers for up to 15 years.
- Good oral hygiene.Taking good care of your mouth and the rest of your teeth, in general, is very beneficial for veneers. Consistent brushing and flossing help prevent plaque buildup around the veneers. Without proper care, there is a risk of developing gum disease, which could cause gums to recede away from veneers. If flossing is not a regular habit, or if it’s too uncomfortable, a Waterpik is a good alternative as it is convenient and effective.
- Use the proper instruments for your teeth.Stay away from overly abrasive toothpaste. Ask your dentist for recommendations on good toothpaste if you need them. Do not use a hard-bristled toothbrush as it can scratch the porcelain of the veneers, potentially leading to bacterial buildup.
- If necessary, always use a mouth guard.Just as with natural teeth, it’s important to wear a mouth guard while involved in contact sports to prevent damage to veneers. Additionally, a mouth guard may be necessary for those who suffer from bruxism, or teeth grinding.
- Do not smoke.Smoking has been shown to increase the risk of gum disease, which can cause the gums to recede away from veneers and natural teeth. Smoking also causes discoloration of both natural teeth and veneers.
- Have regular dental visits.Visits to the dentist’s office are beneficial not just for overall oral health but also to check up on the health of your veneers. During these appointments, you get a cleaning to complement your home oral care routine as well as an assessment of the integrity of the veneers. If anything is wrong, the problem would hopefully be caught early enough to be treated fairly easily.