Care of Your Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are immune to tooth decay, but you have to be careful of the exposed part of your tooth. This area can still get a cavity. You will need to be diligent about your oral health care, brushing and flossing regularly. Taking great care of your teeth is also the very best way to be sure that they last. Some can last around ten to twenty years if cared for properly.

When porcelain veneers are placed, gum health can also improve. This is usually because once the natural tooth is reshaped and the installation takes place, there is a more ideal contour to the tooth. Usually though this is due to patients taking much better care of their teeth and avoiding the kinds of foods that may damage them. This then carries over into gum health and is definitely better for overall oral care. However, if you begin to notice issues with your floss snagging, or red, bleeding gums, it's important to get in to your dental professional and have this checked out.

There are a number of techniques that may be used in prolonging the life of your porcelain veneers. It's important to be sure that the dental hygienist handling their care is experienced in working with them and in addition to regular care, visiting a dentist around four times yearly to protect your restorations. In addition to routine care that only a professional can give, they will also keep the margins polished and that will also prolong their use. It's also important to make sure that your cosmetic dentist recommends this procedure for your teeth, first, though. Another thing to remember is to not allow the dental hygienist to use a power polishing spray on them as this can lead to the glaze on your teeth being destroyed, causing discoloration.

Another consideration to take into account is the resin that is used to adhere your caps. This, too is susceptible to staining and deterioration. Alcoholic beverages, coffee, and other food products can cause the surface of the resin to soften. Use of highly abrasive toothpastes can scratch the margins and usually, using the whitening toothpaste given to you by the dental professional who installs your caps can prevent this. It is also very important to avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol, instead opting for a more gentle form. Again this may be something you want to ask for recommendations on, because that can help you to choose the type that will best suit your new needs.

If you are someone who grinds their teeth, it is also important to get a specialized mouthguard to protect your teeth from damage. Though they are designed to withstand quite a bit, additional pressure that comes from teeth grinding may cause them to chip and break. Taking care of your teeth now only takes just slightly more effort than it did before, but brushing three times a day with an appropriate toothpaste, flossing, and making sure that your hygienist knows how to care for them also can prolong the brightness of your new smile.