How to Care for Your Porcelain Veneers in Metro Atlanta

Porcelain veneers are a fantastic cosmetic dentistry solution, capable of covering up discolored, chipped, short, or gapped teeth. While they can give you a stunning smile, they aren’t self-maintaining. Proper care is essential to keep them looking flawless and ensure they last for decades.

Caring for your porcelain veneers is straightforward. To keep them white and clean, follow the same routine as you would for your natural teeth:

• Floss daily to remove debris between teeth.
• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
• Visit your dentist every six months for check-ups and professional cleanings to remove any plaque buildup.
• While porcelain veneers are resistant to stains, neglecting your oral hygiene could leave them looking dull. Plus, don’t forget you still have your natural teeth underneath the veneers—maintaining overall oral health is crucial to avoid tooth decay and other issues.

To extend the life of your veneers, you’ll need to avoid habits and actions that can cause damage. Follow these tips:

• Break bad habits: If you have a tendency to chew on pens, pencils, or other objects when you’re nervous or thinking, stop. Over time, these actions can wear down or crack your veneers.
• Use the right tools: Your teeth are not bottle openers or scissors. Avoid using your veneers to tear open packages or bottles as this could lead to chips or cracks.
• Consider a mouth guard: If you grind or clench your teeth (a condition known as bruxism), wearing a night guard while sleeping can prevent wear and tear on your veneers, as well as avoid other dental issues like gum recession or TMJ disorders.
• Snack wisely: Keep sugary foods, hard candies, and sodas to a minimum. Constant exposure to sugar can lead to tooth decay, which affects both your natural teeth and veneers.
• Wear a sports guard: If you’re active in sports, especially contact sports, always wear a protective mouth guard to shield your veneers from potential accidents.

Porcelain veneers are an investment, and caring for them properly will ensure they last for years. At Gorman Smiles, our experienced dentists will help you choose the best veneers for your unique smile makeover. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about transforming your smile with porcelain veneers.