Caring for Veneers After a Cosmetic Dentist Treatment

Dental veneers from a cosmetic dentist can correct issues with a person's smile, such as gaps in the teeth, crowding, or mild misalignment, and improve the overall appearance. Establishing a regular routine to care for dental veneers can prolong the life and maintain the aesthetic appeal of the veneers.

Veneer maintenance

In many ways, caring for dental veneers is similar to caring for natural teeth. However, there are a few differences. After a patient receives treatment from a cosmetic dentist, the dentist will usually provide instructions for maintaining the veneers.

Maintain a good oral hygiene routine

Hopefully, patients are already regularly brushing and flossing at least twice a day. However, veneers can be damaged by brushing too hard. Patients are advised to use a soft toothbrush and brush gently. It can be helpful to also use a mouth rinse to help remove food particles that may become lodged in the veneers.

Limit consumption of food and drink that may damage the veneers

Hard foods, such as ice or candy, can chip or crack veneers in the same way those foods can sometimes damage natural teeth. While veneers are not usually susceptible to stains from food and drinks such as coffee, tea, wine, and blueberries, those foods can stain the teeth that are next to the veneers, causing a noticeable difference in color. To maintain a uniform appearance, limited consumption of these foods is advised.

Use a non-abrasive toothpaste

Dental veneers are made from porcelain that can be damaged by abrasive substances. The cosmetic dentist may recommend patients avoid gritty kinds of toothpaste that are intended for whitening the teeth because these kinds of toothpaste may be too abrasive for veneers. The dentist may also recommend a non-abrasive whitening toothpaste to help maintain the appearance of the natural teeth so that the teeth remain the same color as the veneers.

See a dentist regularly for cleanings and exams

Regular dental visits for cleanings and exams are important for preserving the appearance and health of the natural teeth. These visits are also vital for maintaining dental veneers. Regular visits allow the dentist to clean and examine the veneers to reduce the chance of future problems and detect any ongoing issues early.