There are so many reasons to smile every day! Dental veneers (sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve your appearance. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth, changing their color, shape, size, or length. Maintaining and caring for your dental veneers ensures their longevity and preserves their appearance. While veneers are durable and resistant to staining, they require proper care to avoid potential issues.

Here are some tips to help you care for your dental veneers and achieve long-lasting results:

  • Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching the surface of the veneers. Floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between teeth and around the edges of the veneers.
  • Choose Non-Abrasive Dental Products: Use non-abrasive toothpaste and mouthwash to prevent scratching or dulling the veneer surface.
  • Avoid Staining Substances: Limit the consumption of staining substances, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco, to prevent discoloration of your veneers.
  • Stay Hydrated and Rinse: Drink plenty of water, especially after consuming beverages or foods that stain teeth. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining substances to reduce their impact on the veneers.
  • Be Mindful of Foods: Avoid biting into hard objects like ice, nuts, or candies, as this could chip or damage the veneers. Cut or slice hard or crunchy foods into smaller, manageable pieces.
  • Wear a Mouthguard: If you participate in contact sports or grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your veneers from damage.
  • Regular Dental Check-ups: Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings to ensure the overall health of your teeth and the integrity of your veneers. Inform your dentist about your veneers during check-ups so they can monitor their condition.
  • Address Teeth Grinding: If you grind your teeth at night, discuss using a nightguard with your dentist to protect natural teeth and veneers.
  • Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools: Refrain from using your teeth to open packages, bite nails, or perform other tasks that could stress the veneers.
  • Promptly Address Issues: If you notice any issues with your veneers, such as chips, cracks, or discoloration, contact your dentist promptly for an evaluation and necessary adjustments or repairs.
  • Maintain Regular Veneer Polishing: If your dentist recommends veneer polishing during check-ups, consider this procedure to maintain the appearance of your veneers.
  • Follow Aftercare Instructions: If you underwent a veneer placement procedure, follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by your dentist to ensure proper healing and long-term success.

By following these tips and maintaining good oral hygiene practices, you can help ensure the longevity and aesthetics of your dental veneers. Regular communication with your dentist is essential to address any concerns and receive professional guidance on maintaining your oral health and the condition of your veneers!

Our cosmetic dentistry treatments are personalized to match your smile goals, and each restoration is hand-crafted to provide you with a fantastic smile. Our dentists specialize in cosmetics and have the incredible artistic and technical skills to give you the smile of your dreams.

If you want to improve your smile with dental veneers, call us at (203) 487-5755 to schedule your FREE consultation with one of our dentists in Norwalk, CT!