How Can I Help My Veneers Last Their Longest?

Many people are frustrated with defects in their teeth such as chips, cracks, gaps, and stains. Fortunately, veneers are a great way to transform your smile in as few as two appointments by concealing defects and reshaping teething. While these remarkable dental appliances are impressively durable, they do not last forever and will eventually need to be replaced. Here are a few tips to help you keep your veneers in great shape for as long as possible.

Practice Excellent Dental Care

One of the great things about veneers is that maintaining them only requires the same oral hygiene routine as real teeth. The American Dental Association recommends a daily dental cleaning regimen that includes brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash. You should floss at least once and brush at least twice daily to remove plaque and food debris, and rinsing with mouthwash afterward will kill many remaining bacteria, preventing infections and leaving you with fresh, classy breath.

Use the Right Toothpaste

Abrasive substances can easily scratch the ceramic materials used to make veneers, leaving unsightly marks on their surface that can make them distinguishable from your natural teeth. For this reason, switch your traditional or stain-removing toothpaste for a gel variety. Gel toothpaste can remove plaque and debris while freshening your breath without harming your veneers.

Avoid Harmful Foods and Beverages

Many foods and drinks can diminish the appearance of your veneers or erode the cement holding them in place. While veneers are stain-resistant, too much exposure to dark items that are heavy with dyes and pigments can leave unsightly stains upon them, and chewing on extremely crunchy items like ice and hard candy can chip or crack them. Excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the bond between your veneers and your teeth, and consuming too much sugar can lead to tooth decay that requires these appliances to be removed so it can be treated.

Veneers are an investment in your appearance and self-confidence. If you take the proper precautions, you can keep your transformed smile beautiful for many years.

About the Author

Dr. Chris Johnson earned his dental degree at Texas A&M College of Dentistry and continues to complete continuing education courses to expand his skillset. He takes joy in helping people from all walks of life achieve healthier smiles in his office in Houston. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as veneers. To learn more about caring for your veneers, contact his office online or dial (713) 229-8100.