A Brief Look Into Dental Veneers and How to Take Care of Them

Many models and celebrities wear picture-worthy smiles because of dental veneers. Although a bit on the pricey side, these shells are worth the cost, especially if you know how to take care of them so they can last a long time.

This article outlines what dental veneers are and how you can take care of them. After reading, you will have shells that will last you for years.

What are Dental Veneers?

These are thin shells that dentists place over the front of your teeth to hide various dental imperfections. Dental labs use solid and durable materials, like porcelain or resin, to create these.

Dental veneers are very versatile, and they can address dental problems like cracked teeth and spaces between the teeth. Additionally, veneers look like natural teeth and hide permanently discolored teeth.

With veneers, you can improve your smile, which can help you feel more confident about how you look.

Your dentist creates a simple mold of your teeth to make the veneer match your teeth’s natural shape, size, and color. As the material is also translucent, it allows light to shine through and reflect off of the shells. This feature contributes to a bright and beautiful smile.

Veneers are also an excellent solution for strengthening weak teeth says this cosmetic dentist in Irvine. In many cases, dentists do not replace weakened or cracked teeth. After fixing a broken tooth, they can suggest a veneer to fortify it.

With these shells, patients can enjoy meals without any pain. They can also eat without worrying about breaking their teeth. Veneers are long-lasting and can also fortify regular healthy teeth.

Most veneers can last for ten to fifteen years. But with the proper care, the thin films can last twenty years or more.

How to Take Care of Your Dental Veneers

Below are simple pointers that can help you take care of your porcelain veneers so you will be more confident with your smile. With these valuable tips, you can prolong the life of your veneers.

Do Not Smoke

Tobacco products can stain your teeth, which can lead to permanent discoloration. You may also degrade the material if you smoke while your veneers are on. Avoid using tobacco products to prevent your white shells from turning ugly yellow.

Avoid Dark-Colored Foods

Aside from smoking, consuming dark foods and beverages can also discolor your veneer. Avoid red pasta sauce, coffee, berries, soft drinks, tea, and wine. These can leave behind surface stains on your teeth and your veneers.

When eating, remember that moderation is the key to having a bright smile. You should also rinse your mouth with water after eating and drinking dark-colored foods and drinks.

Floss

Even with veneers, you still need to floss your teeth every day. Routine flossing keeps your gums healthy and in great shape. It can also prevent gum disease, which can cause gaps between your gums and your veneers.

Do Not Use Your Teeth as Tools

Remember to be gentle with your teeth. They are not tools, so do not try to open things with them. Using your pearly whites as a bottle opener can lead to damaged teeth. If you try to bite non-food items with your veneers on, you may damage or crack them from the pressure.

Clean Your Veneers

You need to take good care of your veneers just as much as you take care of your real teeth. Brushing twice a day and flossing your teeth helps maintain optimal dental health.

Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum diseases, which may make your gums recede and expose the borders of veneers. The gap puts them at risk of detachment or chipping.

Use the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Not all toothpaste and toothbrushes are the same. Be careful when choosing a product and avoid anything that contains abrasive ingredients for your teeth and veneers.

When choosing a toothpaste, check the ingredients for sodium bicarbonate, hydrogen peroxide, or baking soda. These chemicals can either eat away at your veneers’ surface or remove their natural sheen.

You do not have to feel compelled to buy toothpaste that whitens your teeth either. These products are unnecessary and may harm your teeth’s enamel and veneers.

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a gentle toothpaste will help you clean your veneers without wearing away the material.

Try a Mouthguard

If you grind your teeth or play extreme sports, wearing a dental or mouthguard can protect your veneers against erosion. These products can help keep your pearly shells in great shape.

Takeaway

With dental veneers, you can have the most beautiful smile. All you have to do is follow the simple yet effective ways to take care of them. Do these on top of your regular dental checkups, and you will have great pearly white shells for years to come.