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Taking Care Of Dental Veneers: A Comprehensive Guide

04/12/2023

After making the decision to get dental veneers, you will need to consider what changes you’ll need to make to your lifestyle and routine to ensure your new smile looks the best it can for as long as possible. 

Thankfully, you don’t have to do too much to maintain the beautiful appearance of your bespoke veneers. That said, they can become damaged or discoloured without the right care. 

In this guide, we share all the information you need to know about taking care of your new dental veneers so your smile continues to look perfect. 

How Durable Are Dental Veneers?

Our natural teeth are amazing. The enamel that coats the outside of each tooth is the hardest substance in the human body —and it needs to be. Every day, we bite, chew, and grind foods of various textures with our teeth. Our teeth work hard. 

Veneers are fine porcelain shells that coat the fronts and sides of your teeth. While these surfaces will benefit from extra protection from decay, porcelain isn’t as strong as enamel. That said, it’s still durable, and there’s no reason why your veneers shouldn’t last for many years with the right care and attention. 

Are Dental Veneers Suitable for People With Bruxism?

Bruxism is a condition that causes you to grind your teeth unconsciously. Although it can affect you while you’re awake, for many, teeth grinding is more of a problem during the night. Bruxism can cause uneven wear to your teeth or even damage. Porcelain veneers will become damaged if you grind your teeth. 

If you do grind your teeth, speak to us before getting veneers. You may be able to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and the veneers. 

How Long Will Dental Veneers Last?

Porcelain veneers typically last for 10 to 12 years, assuming you take good care of them. After your veneers have naturally worn down, we can replace them and refresh your smile. 

Can You Eat Whatever You Want When You Have Veneers?

Although there are no specific dietary guidelines you’ll need to follow once you have veneers, avoiding or minimising your intake of certain foods can help keep your smile looking good. Sticky sweets and foods that are exceptionally hard could cause damage. 

Although porcelain veneers are stain resistant, they can still become discoloured if you don’t take proper care of them. One of the leading causes of staining is tobacco smoke. If you’re a smoker, consider quitting to keep your veneers looking good. 

Tea, coffee, red wine, dark chocolate, dark berries, spicy foods, tomatoes, and cola are all examples of foods and drinks that can stain with repeated exposure. 

How Do You Prevent Dental Veneers From Becoming Damaged?

Although porcelain is durable, it’s not indestructible. Chewing things like pens, tools, or ice could chip, crack, or completely detach your veneers. Don’t chew anything that’s not food. 

Can You Whiten Dental Veneers?

Unfortunately, teeth whitening treatments don’t work on veneers. If you intend whitening your smile around the time you are having veneers placed, let us know, and we’ll ensure the shade of porcelain matches your new veneers.

How Do You Keep Dental Veneers Clean?

Maintaining good oral hygiene will stop your veneers from becoming discoloured while reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease — both of which could impact your veneers. 

Brush your teeth using fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush every morning and night. Flossing every day will remove bacteria and food debris from between your teeth, ensuring your veneers remain healthy and intact. 

Rinse your mouth with mouthwash every day. This helps wash away plaque and food particles while refreshing your breath and protecting your smile. 

How Often Do You Need To Visit the Dentist When You Have Veneers?

Visiting us for a routine dental checkup is important, regardless of whether you have veneers or not. But each appointment is an opportunity for us to check on the health of your smile and your veneers. Regular visits mean we’ll spot problems early. 

We recommend making an appointment for a checkup every six months. 

Visiting our dental hygienist will also help you look after your veneers. Our hygienist will give your teeth a deep clean, removing tartar and freshening your smile. A visit to our hygienist isn’t just about getting a professional clean. You’ll receive bespoke advice on ways to improve how you care for your veneers based on your lifestyle needs. 

Dental Veneers In Canary Wharf

Dental veneers provide your smile with an instant makeover. But it’s important to take care of them once in place so they keep looking good for many years to come. 

Get in touch today to book your dental veneer consultation.