You’ve just had veneers put on your teeth, and you’re feeling great about your new smile. But now that the procedure is over, it’s important to take care of your veneers to ensure they last for many years. Here are eight must-try tips on how to take care of your veneers after the procedure.
1. Avoid Chewing any Hard Objects
One of the biggest enemies of veneers is constantly chewing on hard objects. Why? Because this can put a lot of unnecessary pressure on your veneers and cause them to either crack or break.
To avoid this, simply be mindful of what you’re biting. If you can’t avoid it altogether, at least limit the amount of pressure you’re exerting on your veneers. This way, you can have peace knowing your veneers are safe and sound.
2. Avoid Eating Sticky or Hard Foods
Both sticky and very hard foods can seriously damage your veneers. Sticky foods can get stuck in between your veneers and teeth and be difficult to remove. Hard foods, on the other hand, can put too much pressure on your veneers causing them to crack or even worst case break.
So, what should you eat? Soft foods are always a great option. And if you do eat sticky or hard foods, be sure to brush your teeth afterward to remove any debris that may be stuck in between your veneers.
3. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for those with veneers. That’s because veneers can trap food and bacteria, which can eventually lead to either tooth decay or gum disease.
For proper oral hygiene, brush your teeth with a soft-bristled brush at least twice a day and floss regularly. You may also want to consider using an interdental brush or water flosser to clean in between your teeth and veneers. And, of course, don’t forget to visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
4. Protect Your Veneers from Injury
Just like your natural teeth, veneers can be damaged by injury. So, if you play sports or participate in other activities that could put you at risk for an injury to the mouth, be sure to wear a mouthguard. This will help protect your veneers (and also your teeth) from being damaged.
5. Limit Sweets and Acidic Foods
We all know that sweets and acidic foods can damage our teeth. But did you know they can also damage your veneers? That’s because sweets and acidic foods can cause the veneers to break down over time.
So, if you want to keep your veneers in the best possible shape, try to limit your consumption of sweets and acidic foods. And, of course, be sure to clean your teeth to remove any sugar or acid that may be stuck on your veneers.
6. See Your Dentist for Regular Checkups
Regular dental checkups are important for everyone, but they’re especially important for those with porcelain veneers. By seeing your dentist regularly, you can catch any problems early and prevent them from getting worse.
During your checkup, your dentist will examine your veneers and make sure they’re in good shape. They may also take x-rays to check for any decay or other problems that may be developing beneath the veneers. So, remember to schedule regular dental appointments and also take good care of your veneers.
7. Quit Smoking
Smoking is bad for your health, and it’s also bad for your veneers. It can cause the veneers to discolor, and it can also lead to gum disease. So, if you want to keep your veneers looking their best, it’s best to quit smoking.
8. Use a Soft-bristled Toothbrush
When cleaning your veneers, it’s important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. This will help avoid scratching or damage to the veneers. And remember to brush gently to avoid putting too much pressure on the veneers.
Conclusion
Keeping your veneers clean and well-maintained is important for their longevity. By following these tips, you can rest assured knowing your veneers will stay in good shape for years to come.