4 Handy Tips for Protecting Porcelain Veneers in Michigan City

From discolored teeth to a crooked smile, porcelain veneers in Michigan City can make all sorts of cosmetic improvements to your pearly whites, helping you feel more confident and outgoing. That said, nothing lasts forever; over time, your veneers will sustain damage and eventually need to be replaced. Fortunately, you can extend their longevity by taking excellent care of them. If you’re thinking of getting veneers, take note of these 4 useful tips for getting the most out of them.

1. Keep Brushing and Flossing

Veneers may cover the front of the tooth, but that doesn’t mean that the enamel underneath isn’t still vulnerable to decay. Furthermore, if you end up suffering from gingivitis or periodontitis due to poor oral health, your gums could recede and expose the edges of the veneers, creating an increased risk of detachment.

To avoid these issues, continue your regular oral hygiene routine by brushing and flossing twice a day. Avoid abrasive toothpastes that can damage the surface of the veneers; gel toothpaste might be a preferable option. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush that won’t scratch the surface.

2. Be Careful of What You Eat and Drink

Be wary of hard foods such as raw carrots and hard chips; they can end up damaging your veneers if you’re not careful. You’ll also want to avoid consuming too many sugary and starchy foods (such as candy and pastas) that can contribute to tooth decay; acidic foods and drinks such as lemons and soda should also be limited.

Do not drink alcohol too often, as it can soften the bonding agent that holds the veneer to the tooth; this won’t necessarily lead to detachment, but it will make that area more vulnerable to deterioration.

Finally, be careful of coffee, tomato sauce, and other foods and beverages that can cause discoloration. Veneers resist stains better than natural teeth, but they’re not immune.

3. Don’t Bite Any Hard Objects

Many people open bottles and other containers with heir teeth. This can be very harmful for your veneers (as well as your natural teeth), so always use a tool specialized for the job instead. Also, if you have a habit of chewing on pen tips, your fingernails, ice or other hard objects, you’ll want to break it as soon as possible.

4. Get a Mouthguard

If you engage in a contact sport where there’s a risk of getting hit in the mouth, make sure that you always wear a mouthguard to minimize damage to the teeth and veneers. You should also get a nightguard if you grind your teeth while asleep.

In addition to these day-to-day tips, keep up your regular visits to the dentist. In addition to cleanings, they’ll be able to identify and correct problems with your veneers before they become too severe. They’ll also help you decide when it’s time for replacements – though hopefully, the care you give them will help ensure that that won’t be for a long while!

About the Practice

At Edgewood Dental, Dr. Valerie Haughtington and Dr. Vidas Noreika make it their priority to help patients feel as welcomed and comfortable as possible during their visits. They can use porcelain veneers to give your smile a complete makeover. To schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (219) 898-4545.