Veneers are a great investment for anyone looking to improve the appearance of their teeth and boost their confidence at the same time. Once you’ve had your veneers fitted, you’ll want to make sure you take good care of them each and every day to extend their life and give you a winning smile. Keep reading as we share the key things to keep in mind when you get a temporary veneer fitted or a set of permanent veneers. Our team will be here to support you with any dentistry needs, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today with any questions you have.
1. Practise Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is critical for preserving the appearance of your veneers. While the veneer itself cannot decay, the tooth underneath still has the possibility of cavities and gum disease if you don’t take care of it properly. Brush your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste for optimal oral health. To protect your veneers, select a non-abrasive formula. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching or wearing down the temporary veneer. On top of good brushing habits, you’ll want to floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that can build up between your teeth. Consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce harmful bacteria in your mouth and support the health of your teeth and gums.
2. Avoid Too Much Force on Your Teeth
While durable, veneers are susceptible to damage. Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or fingernails to prevent chipping and maintain the longevity of your veneers. If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, it’s essential to address this issue for good veneer maintenance. Prolonged grinding can damage both your veneers and your natural teeth. Your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep and take care of veneers over the upcoming years.
3. Watch Your Diet
Some foods and beverages can stain or damage your veneers, so it’s important to be mindful of your diet for veneer care and maintenance. Limit your consumption of staining drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas. Although veneers are more resistant to staining than your natural teeth, they can still discolour over time. Additionally, try to avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage the veneers.
4. Book Regular Dental Check-Ups
Routine visits to your dentist are essential for taking proper care of veneers and your natural teeth. During these appointments, your dentist will examine your veneers to ensure they remain secure. They will also check for any underlying dental issues within your natural teeth, such as cavities or gum disease. Your dentist or hygienist can also polish your veneers to restore their original appearance and keep them looking their best for years to come.
5. Protect Your Veneers During Contact Sports and Physical Activities
If you participate in contact sports or high-risk activities, it’s crucial to wear a mouthguard. A custom-fitted mouthguard provides extra protection for your veneers, natural teeth, and gums. Even non-contact sports, such as cycling or skiing, can create a risk for your veneers if falls occur, so follow precautions when taking care of veneers once you’ve had them fitted.
6. Avoid Tobacco Products
Tobacco use can have a negative effect on your veneers and overall oral health. Smoking can lead to discolouration of the veneer edges, creating an uneven appearance. On top of that, tobacco increases the risk of gum disease. When the gums are impacted by any type of disease, this can impact the integrity and stability of your veneers.
7. Temperature Sensitivity
Some people with veneers may experience increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. This is often temporary, but if sensitivity persists, consult your dentist to determine the cause and explore solutions. To minimise discomfort, avoid consuming extremely hot or cold foods and drinks quickly after one another. Use a straw for cold beverages to reduce direct contact with your teeth, and be cautious when eating hot soups or other warm foods.
Caring for veneers is a simple task if you follow the temporary veneer care tips we’ve shared above. You need to make sure you are following basic oral hygiene tips to ensure the veneers Manchester cost pays off for years to come. Veneers can leave you feeling more confident about your smile and enhance your overall appearance when cared for properly. Our team will be here to support you throughout the process of fitting your veneers through to the aftercare in the upcoming years. Contact us today for more information about composite veneers in Manchester or to discuss any questions you have about effective care for veneers.