So, you’ve just gotten a new set of porcelain veneers. You can’t believe how flawless they turned out and can’t wait to show off your new smile to your friends and family. Since it’s the weekend, you’ve decided to celebrate with a nice bottle of red wine you’ve been waiting to try. As you go to twist the corkscrew into the bottle, you hesitate. Before you left, your dentist in Lafayette told you about certain foods you needed to avoid to make your veneers last as long as possible.
Today, we’ll be discussing the best ways to protect your veneers from damage and discoloration.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Porcelain veneers in Lafayette are designed to last for a long time. Their sturdy porcelain material is capable of withstanding all the typical foods you eat, without losing any adhesion. However, just because they’re sturdy doesn’t mean they will last for life. On average, porcelain veneers last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, depending on how well you treat them.
Fortunately, there are many ways to get the most out of your dental investment.
Practicing Good Oral Hygiene
While brushing twice a day and flossing is necessary to keep your teeth healthy, it also works to remove surface stains from your porcelain veneers. Porcelain is stain-resistant, so it won’t stain as easily as natural tooth enamel will. However, that doesn’t mean you can forgo oral care.
For additional protection, consider using a whitening toothpaste two to three times a week. Use floss to remove plaque from the areas that a toothbrush misses. Avoid beverages that are known for staining. If you can’t avoid beverages like coffee, wine, dark teas, or colas, make the effort to rinse your mouth out with water after consuming them.
Using Oral Protection When Needed
If you play a contact sport such as football, kickboxing, or hockey, you probably already know that you need to wear the right protective gear. However, if you’re just getting into it and you have dental restorations of any kind, a mouthguard is a necessity. Don’t jump into any contact sport without doing so.
Using Your Teeth Responsibly
You may not have noticed it until now but chewing on inedible objects can cause significant damage to your teeth. If you chew on pencils, pen caps, or your fingernails, you’ll need to break the habit to protect your veneers.
Additionally, avoid using your teeth for tasks that are better suited for tools, such as opening a package, letter, or bottle.
When You Need a Nightguard
When you visit your dentist in Lafayette, they’ll be able to catch signs of bruxism, also known as teeth-grinding. This habit is typically subconscious, meaning people are susceptible when they aren’t aware, especially when they’re sleeping. To protect your existing tooth enamel and new veneers, you’ll want to purchase a custom-fitted nightguard.
Don’t let your habits ruin your new investment! To keep your porcelain veneers in good shape, follow these tips and schedule a visit with your dentist today!
About the Author
Dr. Andrea Schmidt earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry. After graduating, she completed a general practice residency at Denver Health and Hospitals. To learn more about porcelain veneers or about her practice, contact her at (303) 604-6355 or visit her website.