Porcelain Veneers Aftercare: What Patients Should Know
The team here at Staten Island Aesthetic & Implant Dentist offers the latest in advanced dental care treatment. This includes the latest in porcelain veneers.
Also known as dental veneers, porcelain veneers are used to treat aesthetic flaws that affect a smile, including chips, cracks, tooth stains, tooth gaps, and minor misalignments of the teeth that are cosmetic in nature. They are an extremely versatile and popular cosmetic dentistry treatment, and they are commonly used in smile makeovers.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
In general, porcelain veneers last around 10 years, though with diligent dental care, porcelain veneers can last longer.
You see, while durable, porcelain veneers are still susceptible to the wear and tear that your natural teeth experience. As a result, the veneers will wear down with time and will need to be replaced for optimal aesthetics and good general functionality. In addition, tooth decay may form around the porcelain veneer, affecting the tooth's natural structure. For a dentist to properly treat the tooth decay, the veneer will need to be removed.
The tips provided below will help you prolong the life of your porcelain veneer and also ensure that you smile is as healthy as possible for years and years down the road.
Regular Brushing and Flossing Is a Must
Good oral hygiene is a must if you want to have a healthy smile that lasts and porcelain veneers that are free from damage. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss your teeth every night. It really makes a difference.
Avoid Use of Tobacco Products
Tobacco products make tooth decay, gum disease, and many other serious health problems more likely. It's best to quit smoking if you do already, or simply just don't start in the first place. This is great for your dental health as well as your general wellness.
Be Wary of Foods That Stain
Porcelain veneers are stain resistant, which means that foods that cause discoloration can affect the tooth structure that surrounds the veneer. In order to ensure the best possible aesthetics for your smile for years to come, try to avoid foods and beverages that lead to dental stains and discoloration.
Do Not Chew On Inedible or Hard Objects
When you chew on pen caps, drinking straws, ice cubes, or your fingernails, you're doing something that's socially unacceptable, to say the least. You're also doing something that just plain bad for your overall dental health. These objects can chip teeth and porcelain veneers, so be sure to avoid these sorts of bad habits.
Wear Mouth Protection When Possible
If you play contact sports or combat sports, these can cause mouth injuries to occur if you are not careful, damaging veneers and your natural tooth structure. Be sure to wear a mouth guard and the proper face and head protection to avoid injury.
Visit Your Dentist for Regular Checkups
Regular dental visits are essential for lasting dental health. Be sure to meet with your dentist twice a year for regular checkups, allowing your veneers to be monitored over time and for your smile to get the treatment that it needs to be its very best.
Schedule a Consultation at Staten Island Aesthetic & Implant Dentist
For more information about your options for enhancing your dental health and wellness, it's important that you contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry today. The entire team here at Staten Island Aesthetic & Implant Dentist look forward to your visit and discussing your treatment options in greater detail.