Are you ready to invest in the smile of your dreams using veneers? That’s great! Veneers are a cost-effective method to fix several aesthetic concerns simultaneously. Attaching the thin shell to the front surface of a tooth improves its color, size, and shape instantly. Although the front sides of your teeth are covered, don’t toss your toothbrush. While your veneers can’t get cavities, your teeth are at risk. Don’t let your smile become a victim of tooth decay. Here’s how maintaining your veneers will keep your new smile healthy and beautiful to get the most from your investment.
Veneers Don’t Stop Cavities
Veneers are made of porcelain, which is resistant to cavity-causing bacteria. However, veneers don’t protect your teeth from tooth decay. Not only can cavities occur on the exposed surfaces of your teeth but also underneath your veneers. As a result, oral hygiene is more important than ever to keep your mouth cavity-free. Your dental health and the lifespan of your veneers rely on the right maintenance.
Maintaining Your Veneers
On average, veneers have a life expectancy of about 5 to 10 years before needing to be replaced; however, it’s not unusual for them to last for much longer if you have good oral health and habits. Your dentist will recommend following several tips to preserve your dental health to ensure your new smile thrives, including:
- Use Nonabrasive Dental Products
Abrasive dental products can scratch the surfaces of your veneers, trapping bacteria and plaque. It’s best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste.
- Commit to your Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth at least twice daily for 2 minutes each session. Clean all surfaces of your teeth and tongue. Use high-quality dental floss to clean between each tooth to remove cavity-causing bacteria and plaque.
- Limit Sugar Consumption
Limit how often you have sugary foods and drinks. If you can’t resist your sweet tooth, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
- Visit Your Dentist
Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll detect any areas of weak enamel sooner to keep your teeth healthy.
- Break Bad Oral Habits
Don’t use your teeth as tools to open packages or chew on inedible objects, like your fingernails.
- Watch What You Eat
Avoid hard or sticky foods to prevent damaging your veneers.
- Live a Healthy Lifestyle
Don’t smoke or drink alcohol excessively to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues that can cause your veneers to fail.
- Protect Your Smile
Wear an athletic mouthguard if you play sports. Ask your dentist for a nightguard if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth.
You can enjoy a stunning, confident smile for years by keeping tooth decay at bay. Your dentist will explain everything you need to know to safeguard your veneers.
About Dr. Clarine Green Hightower
Dr. Hightower earned her dental degree from the Howard University College of Dentistry and continued her education in many specialties, including cosmetic dentistry. Whether you need a cleaning and checkup or want to improve your smile, contact our office today to request your consultation.