When it comes to treatments in cosmetic dentistry, porcelain veneers are a popular option. Used to conceal aesthetic flaws such as chips, cracks, gaps, misalignment, and discoloration, these restorations adhere to the front portions of the teeth. The result is a more symmetrical, balanced, uniform smile. Properly maintaining your veneers can help you keep your smile in tip-top shape. Here, your Denver dentist at Metropolitan Dental Care explains how to properly care for your porcelain veneers for a long-lasting, beautiful smile. If you are considering porcelain veneers in Denver, read on to learn more.
#1: Don’t use your teeth as tools.
Do you bite your fingernails when you’re nervous? Chew on pens or pencils while you’re deep in thought? Do you love crunching on ice? These habits are extremely harmful to porcelain veneers and natural teeth alike. To protect your smile, break yourself of these harmful behaviors.
#2: Avoid foods and beverages that stain.
Porcelain veneers are much more resilient to staining compared to natural teeth, but they can still become discolored over time. What’s more, your natural teeth stain faster, which means there will be a noticeable color contrast between them and your veneers if you frequently consume dark-colored foods and beverages. For this reason, we recommend consuming these things in moderation:
- Coffee and tea
- Cola
- Red wine
- Berries
- Tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Soy sauce
Try drinking coffee and tea through a straw to minimize the time the liquid is in contact with the teeth. Additionally, rinse your mouth out with water after every meal or snack. This will effectively reduce the risk of staining.
#3: Clean your teeth properly.
Fortunately, porcelain veneers do not require any special tools or instruments to clean. You can simply brush and floss them just like your natural teeth. We recommend using a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush to prevent micro-scratches in the porcelain. Use caution when flossing, as well. Pull the floss all the way through rather than snapping it out from between the teeth. This will reduce the risk of dislodgement.
In addition, be sure to attend all scheduled dental visits. Routine cleanings with your hygienist will help you keep your veneers in excellent shape.
#4: Treat bruxism before pursuing veneers.
Bruxism – or, teeth grinding – can cause serious damage to natural teeth and restorations alike. Excessive pressure from clenching and grinding can cause your veneers to chip or fracture. Therefore, if you suffer from bruxism, it is important to address the issue before pursuing restorations. Your dentist will talk with you about your treatment options. In most cases, all that is necessary is a custom night guard to protect your teeth from damage while you sleep.
#5: Wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports.
If you play any kind of contact sport, it is highly recommended that you wear a custom oral appliance to protect your teeth while on the court or field. Up to 39 percent of all dental injuries are sports-related. Therefore, if you have porcelain veneers in Denver, it is important to protect your investment.
Learn More about Porcelain Veneers in Denver
Are you considering porcelain veneers in Denver? Have you already received your restorations, and are simply looking for ways to maintain them? If so, schedule a consultation at our Denver, CO dental practice. Our team is proud to serve families in the surrounding townships of Lone Tree, Centennial, Parker, and Highlands Ranch. Contact Metropolitan Dental Care online or call our office at 303-534-2626.
