If you hope to improve the appearance of your smile, porcelain veneers can be the ideal cosmetic treatment for you. These fixtures can whiten, straighten, and reshape your teeth to fit your aesthetic goals.
When you are happy with the look of your smile, you will want to keep it looking its best for as long as possible, which can be up to fifteen years with veneers. The dental team at Gwaltney Dental in Suffolk, VA provides tips for taking care of your porcelain veneers to ensure long-lasting cosmetic benefits.
Pay Attention to Your Bite
It may take some time to get used to the feeling of porcelain veneers over your teeth. These fixtures are custom-made according to the unique size, shape, and color of your teeth for a secure, natural-looking fit.
Your dentist will ensure the veneers are attached permanently with dental bonding during the procedure, but if you notice the veneers feel loose or out of place, you should contact your dental professional as soon as possible.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
To keep veneers in place for as long as possible, you should take care of your teeth and gums that serve as a foundation for these fixtures. A good oral hygiene routine will keep your mouth strong and healthy and your porcelain veneers looking their best.
A proper oral hygiene routine includes brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. While veneers are stain-resistant, they can still collect plaque that can eat away at the enamel of your natural teeth, causing dental problems like tooth decay. You should practice a good oral hygiene regimen to ensure this plaque is cleared regularly to avoid these concerns.
Avoid Abnormal Pressure
Porcelain veneers are constructed to endure the everyday wear and tear that your teeth experience, but they can still be damaged if exposed to abnormal amounts of pressure. For this reason, you should avoid biting down on hard items, such as the end of a pen, ice, or fingernails.
You should also let your dentist know if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth. They may recommend that you wear a mouthguard overnight to protect your teeth and veneers from this behavior that may occur as you sleep, or they might recommend alternative treatment.
Porcelain Veneers and More in Suffolk, VA
Gwaltney Dental offers porcelain veneers and other cosmetic dental treatments to patients in Suffolk, VA. Our practice also specializes in restorative and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 757.982.8467.