Porcelain veneers are a great option to correct a less-than-perfect smile. Many of the stunning smiles you see that are perfectly shaped bright white teeth are veneers. Veneers can create a smile you love and help with teeth that are misshapen, discolored, crooked, worn down (from abrasion or attrition) or spaced.
Veneers are thin shells made from porcelain or composite resin attached to the front of the teeth. They are custom-made for your teeth. Veneers are strong and durable and they look very natural. In comparison to other dental options, veneers look and gleam like real, freshly cleaned teeth. They are a great option to makeover your smile.
Once you have decided to get veneers and get the smile you have always wanted you must ensure that it will last as long as possible. This may mean you need to change your oral hygiene routine and the care you give your teeth, and maybe even change some of the foods you eat. Here are our tips to best care for your new porcelain veneer smile.
1. Clean your teeth.
Brushing at LEAST twice a day and using dental floss are great ways to maintain optimal dental health, nothing different from the norm.
2. Choose the right toothpaste.
When choosing your toothpaste, it may be wiser to choose gel products over those in paste form as they tend to contain no hydrogen peroxide or baking soda. Whitening toothpastes are not necessary and may even be harmful to your veneers.
3. Choose your toothbrush.
Brushing your teeth benefits your oral health and your veneers’ longevity when you use the right toothbrush, choosing one with soft bristles.
4. Do not bite hard objects.
Any hard object can chip the porcelain so be aware of what you are using your teeth for. If you have the habit of biting into random things, such as pencils, pens, or even ice, it would be helpful to break these habits.
5. Watch what you eat.
You may want to avoid hard foods, sugary foods, acidic foods and foods that are rich in color.
6. Monitor alcohol intake.
Consuming lots of alcoholic drinks will soften the bonding composites holding the veneers to your teeth. Alcohol is also found in some mouthwash and toothpaste, so check the ingredient list.
7. Address teeth grinding.
You will most likely be told to wear a mouth guard while sleeping and this will help protect your smile immensely.
8. Wear a mouth guard.
Protect your veneers during sports activities by wearing a mouth guard to minimize the impact on your teeth.
9. Have regular dental visits.
This will keep you in the know about your overall oral health and the health of your veneers.
10. Smile more.
Now that you have the smile you love be sure to show it off. There is nothing more attractive than a great smile!
Veneers do not last forever and you may have to replace them after a certain time, but until then let your smile shine and do the talking for you. This is an investment you will not regret. In addition to porcelain veneers, there are several other options including chairside composite veneers (composite bonding directly to the teeth that can be a big esthetic improvement with the cost of porcelain).
If you are interested in porcelain veneers or other options to change your smile, Dr. Spear would love to have a consultation with you. You will have the opportunity to discuss what you would like to change and what the cost might be of your new smile. Please call our office at 817-920-1488.