Porcelain veneers in Allen could totally transform your smile, giving you the natural-looking, absolutely gorgeous grin you’ve always wanted. However, while veneers have the potential to last for well over a decade, they are not a fix-it-and-forget solution for your teeth’s aesthetic issues. If you want your smile to stay beautiful and strong for as long as possible, you must apply some simple guidelines. The following tips will help you extend the lifespan of your veneers and get the most out of your amazing new look.
Prioritize Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, and it can damage the teeth that support your veneers. Hence, it’s vital that you brush at least twice a day and floss once a day. However, it’s also important that you are gentle while you are carrying out your oral hygiene routine. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to prevent wear to your veneers as well as your natural teeth. Apply enough pressure, but be aware that if you are squashing your bristles, you are brushing too hard.
Use the Right Toothpastes
Most toothpastes are at least slightly abrasive, which helps them to rid the teeth of surface stains. However, that abrasiveness could cause tiny scratches to form on the veneers. Food particles and bacteria might accumulate in those little scratches and cause your smile to look dull. The best way to avoid this problem is by using a non-abrasive or minimally abrasive toothpaste. Your dentist or hygienist can give you product recommendations.
Don’t Skip Dental Appointments
You should always try to visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. At these appointments, your dentist will not only inspect your teeth and gums, but they’ll also see how your veneers are doing. If they notice any early signs of damage, they can take steps to make repairs.
Stop Smoking
The porcelain that composes porcelain veneers is nonporous and thus cannot incur stains. However, the bonding agent that cements the veneers onto your teeth can stain, especially if it is continually exposed to cigarette smoke or chewing tobacco. It’s best to leave such habits behind in order to protect your smile’s health and appearance.
Keep an Eye on Your Diet
You should avoid biting down on anything that has the potential to break your veneers. For example, you should never chew on ice or hard candy. You should also consume sugary and acidic foods in moderation because overindulging could harm the teeth beneath your veneers. Extremely dark foods might stain the teeth next to veneers or the veneers’ bonding agent.
Caring for porcelain veneers is simple! In fact, most of the same habits that are good for your natural teeth will also help you to extend the lifespan of your stunning new smile.
About the Author
Dr. Keyvan Kar is a general dentist and prosthodontist in Allen. His extensive training and experience in dental prosthetics equip him to create the highest-quality restorations, including porcelain veneers. If you would like to discover how Dr. Kar can help you achieve the smile you have always dreamed about, contact our office at 214-260-9911.