5 Tips for Taking Care of Your Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin shells that are bonded to the front of the teeth. They can correct a number of dental issues, like cracked teeth, discoloration, teeth that are misaligned and worn down teeth. Getting porcelain veneers require three trips to the dentist's office and can dramatically change the appearance of your teeth. However, if you do not properly care for your porcelain veneers, they can break over time. Here are five useful tips for taking care of your veneers:

Wear a Mouth Guard While Playing Sports

If you frequently play contact sports, it's a good idea to wear a mouth guard. This device will protect your veneers if a ball happens to hit your mouth. You can get a custom-made mouth guard at your dentist's office.

Limit Stain-Causing Foods and Beverages

Although veneers are considered stain resistant, they can still only handle so much. If you drink coffee or red wine every day, for example, your veneers can develop stains after a while. That is why it is best to limit stain-causing foods and beverages as much as possible. If you do consume of these foods or drinks, make sure to rinse your mouth out with water afterward.

Don't Use Your Teeth as Tools

Veneers may not be your real teeth, but that does not mean you should try to use them as tools. If you use them to open bottles or remove clothing tags, your veneers can get worn down and will need to get replaced.

Visit Your Dentist

It is also important to have a dentist check your porcelain veneers every six months. He or she will thoroughly clean your veneers and make sure they are holding up. If a problem is caught early, it can prevent porcelain veneer failure.

Use a Soft Toothbrush

If you are not already using a soft-bristle toothbrush, it is definitely time to start. Brushing your teeth with a hard toothbrush can eventually wear the polish off your veneers, making them appear dull. A soft bristle toothbrush is more gentle on your veneers and will help them last longer.

Porcelain veneers are a big investment, so it is important to take good care of them. If you follow these helpful tips, your veneers are more likely to last many years. If you ever encounter a problem with your veneers, like a crack, you should see your dentist as soon as possible.

For more tips on taking care of your veneers, talk to dentists like Leo Uicker DDS.


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