How to Care For Your Veneers?

Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain or plastic cemented over the front of your teeth to change their color or shape. They are used on teeth with uneven surfaces or are chipped, discolored, oddly shaped, unevenly spaced, or crooked. Unlike crowns, veneers won't require the removal of much of the tooth structure.

Keep Veneers Clean

In order to keep your veneered teeth clean and healthy, continue to brush and floss as usual, but pay special attention to the parts of your teeth with veneers. You should also visit your dentist twice a year for professional cleanings to keep your smile bright!

Protect Your Teeth

While veneers are stain-resistant and very strong, they can still be damaged from trauma or biting on hard foods. Avoid chewing on ice or other hard objects such as pencils or small bones. If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a nighttime mouthguard to protect your teeth and keep your jaw in proper alignment. 

Lastly, quitting smoking or chewing tobacco can also greatly improve the longevity of your veneers by protecting them from gradual discoloration and the harmful effects of tobacco use.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

All it takes to maintain your veneers is regular brushing and flossing. These aftercare tips will keep your smile looking bright and healthy for years to come!

Brushing your teeth helps remove food debris that can turn into plaque, which can damage your teeth and gums if left unchecked. In addition to traditional toothpaste, you may want to consider using a product that is specifically designed to clean the surface of teeth without eroding enamel or scratching the veneer itself.

Flossing is also important. Dental floss removes any buildup of plaque and food particles from between the teeth and along the gum line. Be sure to gently clean between all of your teeth at least once each day to remove bacteria and food debris that could cause decay.

Attend Regular Checkups

Once your veneers are in place, it is important to maintain them with regular cleanings and exams. Though your porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, they will still discolor over time and will eventually need to be replaced due to normal wear and tear. However, with proper care, you can expect them to last many years.

Your dentist will determine the schedule for follow-up visits after your veneers are placed based on your individual needs. Typically, the follow-up appointments will be scheduled anywhere from four to six months apart. These visits are important because your dentist can check on the condition of your teeth as well as the fit of your veneers. If there are complications or concerns, these appointments can also be used to address any issues right away before they progress into bigger problems. As always, if you ever have a question or concern in between your regular appointments, give our office a call. If it's a true emergency, we will see you the same day you call!

Visit Georgetown Cosmetic Dentistry at 2440 M Street, NW, Suite 328, Washington, DC 20037, or call (202) 785-4141 to learn more about tips to maintain a healthy smile.