We are officially open and seeing patients. Schedule your appointment today by calling: 

Mon-Thu

8AM-5PM

Fri

8AM-3PM

Request an Appointment

How to Take Care of Veneers

Got a question ?
Call: (123)456-7890

December 26, 2023

Veneers are a remarkable cosmetic dentistry solution for achieving a flawless smile by concealing dental imperfections with thin porcelain or composite resin shells. Their quick and effective transformation power is undeniable.

Yet, just like any valuable investment, proper care is essential to ensure your veneers remain impeccable. In this guide, we will delve into veneer maintenance, exploring effective techniques and best practices to keep a dazzling, lasting smile.

The Importance of Special Care for Veneers

Veneers are not your natural teeth; they are delicate shells that have been meticulously crafted to enhance your smile. While they are designed to withstand daily wear and tear, they do require a bit of extra attention to maintain their longevity and beauty.

Here's why prioritizing special care for your veneers matters:

  • Protect Your Investment: Ensure a lasting return on your smile and confidence investment.
  • Preserve Aesthetic Appeal: Maintain your veneers' natural beauty and avoid staining or damage.
  • Avoid Frequent Replacement: Prolong veneer lifespan to save time and money.
  • Minimize Discomfort: Prevent discomfort or sensitivity of teeth from damaged or stained veneers.
  • Overall Oral Health: Promote good oral health for both veneers and natural teeth and gums.

Ultimately, caring for your veneers is not just an option but a necessity. Understanding their unique needs and implementing proper maintenance can assist you in enjoying a radiant smile for years without worry.

Maintaining Veneers: A Daily Guide

Keeping your veneers in pristine condition calls for a daily routine that is not only simple but also highly effective. The following is a rundown of the actions that you need to do at various intervals throughout the day:

Morning Routine:

Start your day with these essential steps to ensure your veneers stay bright and healthy:

  • Choose Non-Abrasive Toothpaste: Opt for dentist-recommended toothpaste that is non-abrasive to prevent potential scratching of your veneers.
  • Gentle Brushing: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to gently brush both your natural teeth and veneers. Pay meticulous attention to thorough cleaning.
  • Rinse Thoroughly: After brushing, rinse your mouth thoroughly to eliminate any remaining toothpaste or debris, laying the foundation for a healthy smile.

After Meals:

To maintain your veneers post-meal, a couple of simple steps can make a big difference:

  • Rinse with Water: After eating, rinse your mouth with water. Swirl it around to dislodge any food particles and minimize the risk of stains.
  • Brush or Mouthwash: Brush your teeth and veneers after each meal, if possible. For situations where brushing isn't feasible, consider using an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash. It provides temporary protection between brushings.

Bedtime Routine:

Before you call it a day, complete a thorough routine to guarantee your veneers remain in optimal condition:

  • Brush Teeth and Veneers Again: Brush your teeth and veneers once more before bedtime, ensuring gentle yet effective cleaning on every surface.
  • Floss Carefully: Flossing is essential to remove any trapped debris or plaque between your teeth. Be meticulous but gentle to safeguard your veneers and natural teeth.

By following this straightforward daily veneer care schedule, you are preserving the health and beauty of your veneers and contributing to overall oral hygiene.

close-up of a person's mouth

Veneer Care Beyond Daily Routine

Effective veneer maintenance extends beyond daily cleaning; it involves weekly and monthly practices to ensure your veneers continue to enhance your smile. Here is what you need to include in your long-term care plan.

Weekly Maintenance:

Check for Damage

Make it a habit to examine your veneers weekly. Check for any chips, cracks, or color changes. Early detection of these issues is key, so if anything seems amiss, contact your dentist immediately.

Gentle Exfoliation

Consider using light-exfoliating toothpaste or a cleaning product designed specifically for veneers once a week. Surface stains can be removed, and the veneers' brightness last with this method.

Lip and Cheek Exercises

Engage in light exercises for your lips and cheeks occasionally. The veneers are more likely to remain firmly in place and to be prevented from becoming loose as a result of these movements.

Monthly Maintenance:

Professional Cleaning

Schedule a monthly appointment with your dental hygienist for a professional cleaning. They possess the tools and expertise to clean your veneers more effectively than regular at-home care, targeting plaque and stain removal.

Bite Alignment Check

Be mindful of your bite and how your veneers feel during chewing. If you experience any discomfort or notice a change in fit, it's important to see your dentist for a bite alignment evaluation.

Incorporating these care routines into your life will assure you that your veneers stay in top-notch condition, enhancing both your smile and self-confidence.

Dos and Don'ts of Veneer Maintenance

Veneers can make your smile more attractive, but you need to take care of them properly to keep them looking good. What follows is an overview of suggested actions and common pitfalls to avoid.

Dos

Don'ts

1. Maintain regular oral hygiene.

1. Avoid excessive force while brushing.

2. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

2. Limit consumption of staining agents.

3. Choose non-abrasive toothpaste.

3. Refrain from nail biting or using teeth as tools.

4. Schedule regular dental check-ups.

4. Avoid teeth whitening after getting veneers.

5. Wear a mouthguard for protection.

5. Don't skip dental appointments.

6. Cut hard foods into smaller pieces.

6. Limit consumption of acidic beverages.

Your gleaming smile is a manifestation of your commitment to oral health, and if you take the appropriate precautions, it will continue to serve you well in the future.

Emergency Care for Dental Veneers

While veneers can deliver beautiful results, they aren't without potential downsides. Even with meticulous care, unforeseen complications can arise. If you have dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can be an option to ensure a more comfortable experience during veneer placement.  To minimize risks and safeguard your oral health, let's explore how to respond to such situations:

Chipped or Cracked Veneers

To prevent further damage, avoid extreme temperatures and colored foods that may potentially stain the exposed tooth. It's crucial to contact your dentist promptly for a thorough assessment and potential repair to ensure your veneers remain in their best possible condition.

Loose or Dislodged Veneers

When a veneer becomes loose or falls out, it's imperative not to attempt DIY fixes. Instead, safeguard the dislodged veneer in a protective case and exercise caution while eating. Your next step should be scheduling an appointment with your dentist.

Veneer Discoloration or Staining

Stain-causing beverages or drugs usually cause discolored veneers. To mitigate the issue, rinse your mouth thoroughly after consuming what causes staining. If discoloration persists or worsens, don't hesitate to consult your dentist.

Swelling or Pain Around a Veneer

Experiencing swelling or discomfort around a veneer, though uncommon, should not be ignored. When this happens, a cold compress could be useful for reducing swelling and choose soft foods to minimize discomfort.

Accidental Removal of a Veneer

In the case of accidental veneer removal, handle the veneer gently and clean it with water. Store it in saline or milk to keep it in good condition until you can visit your dentist. This step is crucial for the potential reattachment of the veneer.

Veneer Allergy or Sensitivity

On rare occasions, an allergic reaction or sensitivity to veneer materials may occur. Symptoms like itching, rash, or discomfort should prompt an immediate dental consultation for evaluation and appropriate action.

Your commitment to effectively controlling the aforementioned factors will be of the utmost importance to the ongoing success and longevity of your dental treatment.

a dentist trying a dental crown on the patient

Welcome to River's Edge Dental – Your Smile's New Home!

Here at River's Edge Dental, we believe that you deserve nothing but the best for your oral health. Our commitment to excellence in dentistry is the cornerstone of our practice, and we are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of care.

From routine cleanings to advanced cosmetic dentistry and implant treatments, we cover a wide spectrum of dental services under one roof with the latest advancements in dentistry to guarantee you receive the best treatments available.

Your smile is our priority, and we can't wait to welcome you to our family of satisfied patients. Schedule your consultation today and experience the difference for yourself!

Conclusion

In wrapping up our discussion on how to take care of veneers, it's clear that maintaining these dental enhancements isn't rocket science. Simple steps like regular brushing, watching what you eat, and visiting your dentist can go a long way in preserving your veneers' luster.

Remember, the condition of your veneers reflects the dedication and attention you bestow upon them. So, give them the care and consideration they deserve, treating them as any other significant investment in your aesthetic appeal and general well-being.

FAQs

Do veneers feel like natural teeth?

When placed correctly, veneers are custom-designed to closely match the look and feel of natural teeth. Therefore, they should feel quite similar to your natural teeth, providing a comfortable and natural sensation.

Are veneers suitable for everyone?

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for veneers. It largely depends on your oral health, teeth condition, and specific dental needs. A consultation with a dentist is necessary to determine if veneers are a suitable option for you.

How long do veneers last on average?

As long as they are properly maintained, veneers have the potential to last anywhere from ten to fifteen years and, in many cases, even longer.

Are cavities still possible with veneers?

Yes, veneers do not make your teeth cavity-proof. Cavities can still develop on the natural tooth structure beneath the veneers if you don't maintain proper oral hygiene.

Can veneers be replaced if they get damaged?

Yes, veneers can be replaced if they become damaged or if you wish to enhance their appearance. If you notice chips, cracks, or other issues with your veneers, it's essential to contact your dentist promptly.

SCHEDULE YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT WITH US

Please schedule your next appointment by calling us at (123) 456-7890

BOOK APPOINTMENT

KNOW MORE ABOUT OUR SERVICES

riversedgedrsidebar
envelopephone-handsetphonemap-markerclockcrossmenuchevron-down