How to maintain your veneers for longer life

Dentists started using veneers all the way back in 1928. They were a cosmetic solution to make the smiles of Hollywood actors more appealing to their audiences. It’s still applicable today, but they’re not just for actors anymore.

Veneers cover up anything that takes away from a perfect smile, like accidental chips and breaks, crookedness, staining, and gaps between teeth. Veneers give you a beautifully shaped smile and all the confidence that comes with that.

They were a temporary solution back then. Now, through advancements made in cosmetic dentistry, veneers last for many years. But just like your natural teeth, you still have to take care of them. How you take care of them influences how long they can last.

Care tips for your Surrey veneers

• Brush regularly and gently
• Floss daily
• Wear a nightguard
• Avoid or rinse after staining drinks
• Avoid sticky, very hard foods.
• Don’t use teeth as tools to open things
• Schedule regular professional cleaning

Veneers come in two types: porcelain and composite (resin). The first are more durable and have a lifespan of 10-15 years. The latter are less invasive and budget-friendly, lasting 5-10 years.

Brush and floss regularly

Although veneers, themselves, cannot get cavities, the tooth they’re attached to still can. So it’s still just as important to brush and floss regularly. Use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste to preserve the veneer’s glossy finish.

Professional cleaning twice a year

Continue to schedule professional cleaning twice a year to keep them in top shape and make sure there are no problems. For example, sometimes the bonding may start to fail, allowing bacteria underneath where you can’t get to it. This needs to be taken care of as soon as possible. Additionally, if you grind your teeth, a mouthguard is a must to protect your teeth and your veneers.

Avoid hard & sticky foods

Since veneers are bonded to your teeth, the less you do to strain those bonds, the better. Therefore, it’s wise to avoid biting into hard foods. Cutting them into smaller pieces and using your molars is a better alternative. Avoid sticky foods which can pull at your veneers. Also, avoid using your teeth as tools to tear or open things.

Avoid staining substances

A bright, white smile is one of the most sought-after advantages of veneers. They’re not totally resistant to stains so avoid foods like coffee, tea, and red wine to  help preserve their look. If that sounds unappealing, then at least rinsing your mouth afterwards will still help. Smoking is a heavy stainer so if you’re still partaking, add ‘maintaining beautiful veneers’ to the list of reasons to stop.

We hope these tips help you maintain your veneers for a good, long life. If you’re curious about veneers and live in Surrey, our cosmetic dentist can answer any of your questions about veneers and set you up for a beautiful, bright white smile all your own.

Riverside Heights Dental is ready to help. For more information about veneers, give us a call and book an appointment. 604-584-2535