Dental veneers are made of porcelain, which is naturally stain resistant, but they can still accumulate some discoloration over time. In order to extend the life of your porcelain veneers, you should take some preventative measures. Here are some tips from our Toluca Lake cosmetic dentists—keep these things in mind as you care for your veneers.
The first thing to remember is that you’ll want to care for your veneers much as you’d care for your natural teeth. This means brushing and flossing at least twice a day, and minimizing plaque build up. This also means that you’ll need to have at least semi-annual professional dental cleanings.
The next thing to consider is that poor dental habits—things that can generally harm your natural teeth—will also compromise your porcelain veneers. So if you…
· Usually chew ice or hard candies
· Open things with your teeth
· Bite into nuts and seeds with your front teeth
· Or chronically grind/clench your teeth
…try to limit these behaviors and preserve the strength of your veneers. If you do regularly grind or clench your teeth, you may be suffering from bruxism. Seek treatment from your dentist to minimize the negative effects of bruxism.
You should also try to avoid using overly abrasive toothpastes on your veneers. And don’t pick at your restorations with toothpicks or metal objects. Not only can these behaviors potentially crack or chip your veneers, they can also weaken the surface of your veneers and lead to staining.
Our Toluca Lake cosmetic dental office is here to help you decide whether porcelain veneers are right for you. These restorations can be used to correct a single tooth or an entire smile. Give us a call for more information or to schedule your own appointment—we’re here to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.