After investing in porcelain veneers in Tenleytown, you’ll want to do what you can to ensure that your investment in your smile is long-lasting. These thin, durable shells that cover your teeth to conceal a variety of imperfections will take your grin from being tinted yellow, crooked, and misaligned, to flawless. After your procedure is over, be sure to ask your cosmetic dentist if they have any aftercare recommendations for you. In the meantime, read on to find out how you can care for your veneers and keep your smile looking fantastic for years to come.
Basic Daily Veneer Maintenance
One great thing about porcelain veneers is that they typically don’t require any special care once you get them. Not only will they completely revamp your smile, but they’re also strong and durable so you won’t have to drastically alter your oral hygiene routine. After your procedure is completed, your dentist will offer more specific care instructions and recommendations. To clean and protect them, be sure to follow these daily steps:
- Brush your teeth twice each day or after every meal.
- Floss your teeth daily.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash once each day.
Don’t forget to also visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. This way, they can alert you to any possible dental damage and remove accumulated plaque and tartar that you can’t get to with a regular toothbrush at home.
Caring For Veneers With Bruxism
Do you grind or clench your teeth regularly? Before your procedure, be sure to let your cosmetic dentist know about this habit because it can potentially damage your veneers and teeth. Luckily, you can ward off any damage to your veneers by wearing a bite guard to help prevent unnecessary wear-and-tear.
Keeping Your Veneers Looking Bright
Even though dental porcelain is stain-resistant because it’s not porous unlike your natural enamel, still try to avoid stain-causing food, drinks, and habits. These include coffee, red wine, black tea, tomato-based sauces, soy sauce, and berries. If you smoke, consider stopping before the treatment so you can get the most out of your investment and benefit your overall wellbeing.
Chewing on Hard Items
While porcelain veneers are incredibly strong, they’re not quite as durable as your natural teeth. To prevent any chipping, breaking, or damage, it’s best to avoid chewing on hard or sticky items. This can include pens, ice, and nails. Even though it’s unlikely, it’s the best choice to keep your new and improved smile looking as great as the first day you got it.
If you have any questions about how to care for your veneers or run into an issue, don’t hesitate to contact your cosmetic dentist. Now that you’ve got the basics down on how to care for your dental veneers, you can be prepared for an easy transition and provide your mouth with the care it needs.
About the Author
Dr. Yelena Obholz completed a residency at Woodhull Hospital in Brooklynn, New York after she completed her D.D.S degree. She completed advanced training and sharpened her skills in periodontics, oral surgery, and prosthodontics. She is committed to optimizing her patients’ oral health and giving them smiles that they’re proud to show off. That’s why she offers services such as teeth whitening and porcelain veneers. For questions or to schedule a consultation to find out if veneers are right for you, visit Aesthetic & Family Dentistry of Washington’s website or contact 202-364-8989.