Dental veneers provide an excellent aesthetic solution for people who are not completely satisfied with the appearance of their smile. Dental veneers are essentially thin laminate shells made from tooth-like material that are used to cover any dental flaws or imperfections that you may have. Indeed, the tooth laminates can make your smile look natural with perfectly sculpted and contoured teeth. Like an investment for the long haul – dental veneers can last up to 10 years if well looked after – you would need to take good care of them.
Here are some tips to help keep your veneered teeth in their bright, pristine and healthy state:
Use a Soft Tooth Brush
Your tooth laminates are held in place using a special bonding agent. After the veneers are cemented, you may continue to brush your teeth with a soft-bristled tooth brush and gentle toothpaste. Flossing is essential for cleaning between the teeth and underneath the gumline where the toothbrush cannot reach.
Practice Proper Oral Hygiene
You should look after your dental veneers the same way as you would your natural teeth. In fact, you must continue to brush and floss as per normal using the “gentler” products as mentioned above. Remember: Like your natural teeth, your veneers are just as susceptible to plague and bacterial build-up that can result in tooth decays and gum diseases. It is also recommended that you visit the dentist every six months for a regular check-and-clean session. During the regular dental visits, you should also ask the dentist to check your veneers, making sure that they remain intact and that they are not loosened or twisted in any way – any distortions can make the veneers vulnerable to decay.
Avoid Food and Drink That Stain Teeth
Of course, to maintain the bright and healthy appearance of your veneered teeth, you may also wish to adjust your diet accordingly. Although your porcelain veneers may be stain resistant, you should still avoid stain-causing substances, foods and beverages to maintain the pristine look of your veneered teeth. For regular coffee, tea or red wine drinkers, it may be a good idea to consume your beverages through a straw to avoid contact with your veneers. Regular smokers will do well to cut down on their cigarettes or quit altogether if they wish to keep the pristine look of their veneers.
Avoid Teeth Grind
If you grind or clench your teeth while sleeping, you may ask your dentist for a protective mouth guard to protect your veneers. The excessive pressure from grinding may cause chipping, which is why the mouthguard is recommended for bruxers (teeth grinders or clenchers) who have had veneers done. The mouthpiece is typically placed in the mouth before going to bed.
Interested to find out more about our range of Porcelain Veneers? Please contact Sailors Bay Dental at (02) 9958 0400. For those who have veneers applied, you may also book an appointment for a regular check to make sure that your veneers are kept in optimum condition at all times.