Veneers can be extremely beneficial for brightening your smile and fixing other minor imperfections. But while they’re not as affected by plaque and staining as your natural teeth, they could still lose their brightness over time. If you have porcelain veneers in Cohoes, NY, it’s important to take proper care of them to maintain their vibrancy. With proper chewing habits and good oral hygiene, your veneers could last up to 15 years before needing to be replaced.
How to Care for Porcelain Veneers in Cohoes, NY
The porcelain material of veneers is designed to be durable and stain resistant. However, that doesn’t mean your veneers are impervious to damage or discoloration. If you fail to maintain your oral hygiene or take care of what you eat, your veneers could suffer. Paying attention to your chewing and brushing at least twice a day are the best ways to help your veneers last a long time.
Brushing and Flossing With Veneers
Porcelain is a minimally porous material that isn’t as affected by the acidity of plaque as your enamel is. This means that you are less likely to develop decay or wear on your veneers due to plaque buildup. However, the natural teeth under your veneers could be affected. And your gums can still get diseased by plaque buildup. It’s, therefore, crucial that you work on keeping up with your oral hygiene.
With veneers, you can typically brush as normal. When flossing, it’s important that you move slowly and use gentle pressure. If you tug too hard on the floss, it may catch on your veneers and cause them to loosen or fall off. If you notice that it’s difficult to floss around your veneers, make a follow up appointment with your dentist. They may need some minor adjustments to help improve your oral hygiene routine.
Avoid Hard and Gummy Foods
Watching what you eat is also important when you have veneers. While veneers can typically withstand normal biting pressure, you still need to be careful when it comes to certain foods. It’s best to avoid chewing directly on hard surfaces, such as ice cubes or the end of a pen, as this could cause your veneers to fracture. You should also try to avoid foods that are particularly gummy or chewy, as they may cause veneers to loosen. Practicing proper chewing habits could help protect your veneers and keep them strong for years to come.
Rinse After Drinking Dark Liquids
Consuming staining foods and drinks, such as soda, coffee, and tea, is a leading cause of discoloration for natural teeth. And while your veneers are less affected by staining, they could still suffer. When drinking dark liquids, it’s best to gently rinse your mouth out with water after. This can help clear away acidity and staining particles to help keep your veneers white and bright.
With proper care and maintenance, many patients can enjoy vibrant smiles with porcelain veneers. Call our office today at (518) 650-1930 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how you could improve your smile with veneers.