5 Ways to Make Your Veneers Last!

Are you thinking about getting veneers? They are a preferred option for celebrities because of their ability to mask imperfections, like chips, discoloration, gaps, undersized teeth, and misshapen teeth. Another great advantage of veneers is the fact that they can last up to 15 years or longer with proper maintenance. Here are some steps that you should be taking to keep your restorations in tip-top shape.

Brush Your Teeth with Care

By taking care of your teeth, you can maintain a healthy smile, with or without veneers. However, you need to ensure that you are brushing properly, as vigorous brushing can cause damage to both your protective enamel and veneers. After you have your veneers placed, ask your dentist how you should be brushing and flossing so that you can do an adequate job for your new and enhanced smile.

Get the Right Toothpaste

After you have your veneers placed, you may want to consider investing in a new toothpaste. This is because the porcelain material they are made out of can become damaged by substances that are too abrasive. This includes toothpaste that is grittier and intended to reduce surface stains from the teeth. Talk to your dentist about which type of toothpaste would be ideal for your enhanced smile.

Refrain from Smoking

Tobacco products are harmful to your smile because they increase your risk for gum disease and oral cancer. On top of that, they are a common reason why patients experience yellowing of the teeth. If you want to keep your veneers and natural tooth enamel as white as possible, it is time to drop the cigarettes for good. Ask your family, friends, and doctor about the best ways you can quit for good.

Choose Your Food Carefully

If you have a habit of chewing on ice or you like sticky, hard candies, you should know that this can harm both your veneers and natural teeth. Things like coffee, red wine, and berries can all stain your natural teeth as well. This can cause a noticeable difference between the surface color of your veneers and your natural tooth enamel over time.

See Your Dentist

Even though your veneers aren’t nearly as vulnerable to staining as your natural teeth, it is still important that you see your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups every six months. If your teeth aren’t in good shape, you won’t be able to enjoy the benefits of your veneers for as long as you can.

Veneers are an excellent cosmetic solution for those wanting dramatic, instant results, but proper care is crucial. By using the tips listed above, you can enjoy your new and improved smile for many years down the road.

About the Author

Dr. Ulysses L. Marable III is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than 15 years. He earned his dental doctorate from the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry in Augusta and continues to pursue continuing education to further expand his clinical skillset. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Georgia Dental Association. For more information on veneers or to schedule an appointment at his office in Fort Valley, visit his website or call (478) 825-3000.