When you have minor imperfections in your smile, there are many cosmetic options to choose from. A popular cosmetic treatment is porcelain veneers in Newport News, VA. Veneers are often chosen because the porcelain material is an excellent match for the look and color of natural teeth. Veneers can help fix small imperfections in your teeth, such as discoloration, gaps, or misshapenness. When applied by an experienced dentist and taken care of properly, veneers can last your smile many years.
Care Tips For Porcelain Veneers in Newport News, VA
Porcelain veneers cover the fronts and sides of your natural teeth, but they need just as much, if not more, care and attention. Veneers aren’t an excuse to forgo proper oral hygiene or careful chewing habits. In fact, while veneers are durable and less likely to stain, they can still suffer damage and discoloration. Following your dentist’s care and maintenance tips can help you ensure your veneers stay strong and bridge for years to come.
Brushing and Flossing
Although veneers are more resistant to the effects of plaque and tartar buildup, they aren’t impervious. Failure to brush and floss your veneers can lead to a plaque layer that blocks their brightness, reducing their vibrancy. And while the porcelain itself is typically unaffected by decay, the rest of the tooth could still suffer if not properly cleaned. Brushing every part of your tooth, especially in the back, can help keep your original teeth healthy so your veneers have a solid foundation to stand on.
Chewing Habits
While veneers are made from durable porcelain, they aren’t immune to fractures and other damage. Practicing good chewing habits can help reduce the strain on your teeth and keep your veneers in good shape. Good chewing habits include things such as:
- Not using your teeth to open packaging
- Not chewing on hard surfaces (such as pens or pencils)
- Wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth in your sleep
By keeping aware of how you bite and use your teeth, you can avoid situations that could damage your veneers or even cause them to fall out.
Visiting the Dentist
To ensure your best odds at keeping a strong and healthy smile, you should visit your dentist at least every six months for a cleaning and routine exam. This is particularly important if you have veneers or other cosmetic and restorative treatments. Your dentist can catch any early warning signs of an issue so they can work to fix it before it grows into a larger problem. And if you notice anything wrong with your veneer, it’s crucial that you make an appointment as soon as possible for an exam.
At First Light Dental of Coastal Virginia, we’re dedicated to helping our patients achieve and maintain a healthy smile they can be proud of. With porcelain veneers, we can help fix minor imperfections in your smile. But it’s up to you to practice good oral care afterward. If you want to improve your smile, contact our offices today to schedule a consultation.