2130 Fulton Street San Francisco, CA 94117-1080 USA

THE VERSATILITY OF DENTAL CROWNS

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR VENEERS

How to Care for Your Veneers: Tips for Long-Lasting Beauty

Veneers are a dental restoration treatment that helps to improve dental function and aesthetics. Dentists place thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin over the front part of the teeth. The popular veneers help to cover imperfections like stains, gaps, and chips. Proper care and maintenance of the veneers helps to ensure their effectiveness and longevity.

Regular Brushing and Flossing

One of the best things you can do for your veneers is to brush and floss your teeth regularly. Ensure you use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth twice a day. Using nonabrasive toothpaste will help prevent damage to the veneer surface. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that get stuck between the teeth and cause gum disease and decay. Use an antiseptic mouthwash to freshen your breath and kill bacteria.

Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods

Dental veneers are durable and strong, but they are not indestructible. Avoid hard and sticky foods like candies, nuts, popcorn, chips, and caramel. They can damage the veneers or cause them to chip or loosen. Limit your intake of meats that can be difficult to chew, such as hard bread, some fruits, and crunchy vegetables like carrots. Avoid chewing ice or using your teeth as tools.

Avoid Tobacco

Apart from being bad for your health, smoking and using tobacco products can damage your veneers. Chewing or smoking tobacco can heighten the risk of developing oral infections. Tooth decay or gum disease will affect your dental veneers. The products also cause bad breath and increase the risk of staining.

Wearing a Mouthguard

Wearing a mouthguard during sports will help protect your veneers from damage. A mouthguard is essential, even if you do not think you will get injured during your activities. It can help prevent accidental damage from contact. If you experience discomfort, your dentist can recommend a custom mouthguard that is comfortable for you.

Prevent Teeth Grinding

If you suffer from teeth clenching or grinding (bruxism), you should protect your veneers. The action can cause the dental restorations to chip or crack. It can also wear down the enamel on the natural teeth, making them susceptible to decay. Wearing a night guard can protect the veneers from damage while keeping the teeth healthy. Your dentist can recommend a custom night guard to ensure maximum comfort and protection.

Avoid Staining Foods and Drink

Veneers do not stain easily, but they are not completely stain-proof. You can prevent veneer staining by avoiding or limiting stain-causing foods and drinks. Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sauces stain the teeth. If you consume the foods or beverages, rinse your mouth afterward with water. For a bright and white smile, schedule regular professional cleaning or whitening.

Regular Dental Visits

Schedule regular visits to the dentist for checkups and cleanings. Dental exams will help maintain the health and appearance of your dental veneers. The dentist will look for signs of damage or decay and recommend ways to keep your veneers in good condition.

Early detection and treatment of tooth decay or gum disease will help to protect your overall oral health. Proper care of your veneers will ensure they last a long time. If you are self-conscious about your smile, your dentist can recommend veneers for perfect pearly whites.

For more on how to care for your veneers for long-lasting beauty, visit Woodyard Dental Care at our office in Paducah, Kentucky. Call (270) 408-1321 to book an appointment today.

Testimonials

Absolutely wonderful experience. Dr. Woodyard explains everything very well and is a true professional. The whole staff is very accommodating and caring.

Jay S

Dr. Woodyard has been my general dentist for more than 10 years and he’s always been so concerned and professional. He is up to date on all the newest innovative treatments. He has done several crowns for me and I was able to get it all done in one day since they were made with the latest technology in house by Dr. Woodyard. I would highly recommend him for all dental needs.

Melissa W

Best dentist I've been to! Very professional operation in all respects. Love that Dr. Woodyard does the majority of usual procedures right in house -- including crowns and root canals. Getting a crown in one visit is truly amazing. Mary is a wonderful hygienist with a solid knowledge of her area of expertise. You won't be disappointed!