Porcelain Veneers Aftercare
Porcelain veneers is one of the most widely performed cosmetic dentistry treatments, due in large part to the versatility of these restorations. Porcelain veneers bond to the facial surface of the teeth to conceal cosmetic blemishes and enhance the appearance of the smile. Porcelain veneers can address dental stains and discoloration, superficial structural damage, and minor malocclusion problems.
Porcelain veneers can keep the smile looking straight, white, and attractive for many years, provided they are cared for properly. Dentists from the Smile Center in Virginia Beach, VA, offer porcelain veneers aftercare tips that help our patients prolong the lifespan of these dental restorations, so they can enjoy an attractive smile for years to come.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Porcelain veneers hide imperfections to enhance the appearance of the teeth. While the effects of porcelain veneers treatment are great for the aesthetics of the smile, they can sometimes cause people to get lazy with their oral hygiene habits. It is important to realize that, just because the teeth look amazing, that doesn’t mean they don’t still need to be brushed and flossed regularly.
Porcelain veneers are made of ceramic materials that are not susceptible to decay. However, the natural teeth beneath the veneers can still develop plaque and tartar, which can lead to decay, infection, gum disease, and other dental complications. To maintain good oral health after porcelain veneers treatment our Virginia Beach patients need to continue to brush their teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and schedule biannual dental exams and cleanings.
Avoid Hard Foods/Objects
Porcelain veneers are durable restorations that are meant to withstand the usual wear and tear that goes along with biting and chewing. Still, just like the natural teeth, veneers can wear down or become damaged over time, especially if they are continually exposed to hard foods or non-food objects. To preserve porcelain veneers, people should avoid eating hard, sticky foods, and should refrain from biting their nails or using their teeth as tools.
Refrain from Consuming Highly Staining Foods and Beverages
One of the many benefits of porcelain veneers is their ability to restore a bright, white color to the smile. While porcelain veneers are stain resistant, the color of these restorations can be compromised over time. Just as with hard foods, it is a good idea to avoid (or minimize consumption of) foods and beverages that are highly staining. Some of the foods and beverages that can cause porcelain veneers stains include tea, coffee, colas, berries, and tomato-based pasta sauces. When individuals choose to eat these foods they should brush the teeth as soon as possible afterwards, or rinse their mouth with water.
Don’t Grind or Clench the Teeth
Another dental habit that can be harmful to porcelain veneers is bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching. Continual grinding and clenching puts the teeth (and porcelain veneers) under excessive force. Bruxism can chip, break, or otherwise damage porcelain veneers. Those of our Virginia Beach patients who have been diagnosed with bruxism should address the condition prior to undergoing porcelain veneers treatment. Most often, bruxism can be treated with the use of a custom dental mouth guard.
Contact Us
Porcelain veneers are attractive and durable restorations that can dramatically enhance the appearance of the smile. If you would like to learn more about porcelain veneers treatment or how to properly care for these restorations, send us a message online, or call our dental practice at (757) 473-8482.
