If you have decided to improve your smile by getting porcelain veneers, you may be wondering if they require any special care. After all, you want to keep them looking their best for the entire time you have them. Luckily, they are nearly as easy to take care of as your natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are permanent, and with proper care, they can last as long as 15 years or longer before needing replacement. While your cosmetic dentist may have their own set of guidelines to follow, there are a few essential tips for maintaining your new beautiful smile.
The porcelain itself is immune to tooth decay, but the tooth it is attached to can still get cavities—extra care to be taken to get any holes taken care of as soon as possible. If you notice your gums getting puffy or bleeding around your porcelain veneers, you should make an appointment with your dentist to have it checked out so they can resolve any problems. Even after you have porcelain veneers, you should still visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Make sure if you change dentists that you let them know about your veneers so they can care for them correctly and that any dentist you do see is experienced in caring for porcelain veneers.
Brushing and flossing are still important, both to care for your natural teeth and the veneers. Some cosmetic dentists may suggest you use certain kinds of toothpaste that are less abrasive to the porcelain. Using an abrasive toothpaste can damage the enamel, making it more susceptible to stains and other damage. Be sure to ask what kind of toothpaste your dentist recommends.
If you have porcelain veneers, you should avoid biting your nails, grinding your teeth, and eating tough foods such as raw carrots. When playing contact sports, you’ll want to protect your teeth with a mouthguard. If you do grind your teeth at night, it’s a good idea to get a mouth guard to protect them and prevent breakage while sleeping. Don’t chew or bite into anything hard.
Porcelain veneers cannot be repaired if damaged. They will have to be replaced entirely. By taking good care of your teeth surfaces, they can last a long time before needing to be replaced. Always follow the care instructions the cosmetic dentist gives you, and if any problems arise, take care of them promptly.
