Wafer-thin and custom-made shells, dental veneers are made from tooth-colored materials that cover the surface of the teeth for protection and improved appearance. By bonding it to the front of your teeth, it could instantly change the shape, length, or size of your teeth without standing out from your normal teeth. Besides checkups and professional cleanings with your dentist here at Sitnik Dental in Salem, OR, here are some tips to help prolong the life of your veneers:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
The foundation of excellent oral health, good oral hygiene must be practiced daily. Just like any sound oral hygiene routine, you must brush, floss, and rinse regularly. For dental veneer care:
- Brush using nonabrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush after every meal to maintain the strength and beauty of your veneers.
- Floss at least after every meal to ensure no particles remain between your teeth and keep your gums healthy.
- Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash after brushing or flossing. Choose mouthwashes that are alcohol-free to prevent softening the bonding agent of your veneers.
As you can see, there’s not much difference with your usual oral hygiene routine, you just need to do it more frequently.
Avoid Aggressive Biting
Our teeth are designed for eating, so avoid biting anything other than food. This is especially true if you have veneers because biting objects like metal caps, for example, could cause damage.
Choose Wisely What You Eat
Raw apples and carrots, although considered healthy, may be dangerous for your veneers. So cut these into small pieces before eating. Likewise, you must consciously avoid or limit acidic and sugary food. These hasten tooth decay and damage the tooth where your veneers are installed. Colored foods can likewise be detrimental to your veneers because they can cause staining when taken continuously for extended periods.
Dentist Appointments
Regular dental checkups are required for everyone, and especially for those with dental veneers. Only your dentist in Salem, OR, can provide you with a thorough dental checkup and complete cleaning of your teeth to ensure that there is no tartar. Your dentist’s professional equipment is likewise necessary to keep your dental veneers polished to preserve their whitish glow.
For Questions or Concerns About Dental Veneers, Contact Us
Call (503) 363-5962 to set an appointment with your dentist, Dr. Igor Sitnik, here at Sitnik Dental in Salem, OR.