Porcelain veneers have allowed countless patients to conceal even extensive chips, cracks, gaps, stains, and misshapenness with beautifully lifelike restorations that mimic the ideal appearance of natural teeth. While these appliances are incredibly durable, they may degrade in appearance or fail early if they do not receive proper care. Here’s a brief guide to a few of the best ways to ensure that your veneers stay in great shape for many years.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells specially shaped to fit over the patient’s natural teeth after a small amount of enamel is removed. This procedure will only be done after the patient receives a local anesthetic to ensure that they feel no pain, and they may also receive a sedation treatment if necessary. The treatment can be completed in as few as two appointments, and it can completely transform a patient’s smile by addressing many dental defects at once.
How Can I Keep My Porcelain Veneers in Excellent Shape?
While porcelain veneers are designed to be durable and functional, they do not last forever and will eventually need to be replaced. They can work and look great for fifteen years or more if they receive excellent care, and a few excellent ways to keep them in amazing shape include:
- Excellent oral hygiene: Be sure to brush and floss daily while using antibacterial mouthwash frequently to prevent oral infections that can compromise your veneers. It’s especially important to carefully clean around the seams between your veneers and your natural dental structure.
- Regular dental visits: Seeing your dentist regularly will allow them to monitor your oral health and the state of your veneers so any problems can be addressed in their early stages.
- Consume dark foods and liquids moderately: Porcelain is quite stain resistant. However, foods that are high in pigments and dyes such as coffee, tea, red wine, cola, berries, and barbeque sauce can leave unsightly stains and discoloration in your veneers if you consume them too frequently.
- Be gentle when chewing: Chewing too vigorously on crunchy, chewy, or sticky items can cause cracks or chips to form in your veneers or even break them off your teeth. It’s also important to refrain from chewing on nonfood items like ice, pens, pencils, and toothpicks.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools: Using your smile to open packages or bottles is a great way to damage your veneers and natural enamel.
Porcelain veneers are an investment in your smile and confidence. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best ways to keep your grin gorgeous for life.
About the Practice
Marshall Denture Clinic offers the finest oral healthcare in town. Led by Dr. Charles A. Parker, the staff treats each patient with incredible courtesy and outstanding customer service. Areas of expertise include denture services as well as general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as porcelain veneers. To learn more about caring for your veneers, contact the office online or dial (903) 935-6351.