Patients with chipped, cracked, crooked, or discolored teeth should schedule a consultation with their dentist to discuss cosmetic dental treatment. Porcelain veneers are an effective, permanent solution that can amend minor tooth damage and straighten and whiten teeth.
Veneers can be treated like your regular teeth, but there are steps you can follow to ensure long-lasting cosmetic benefits. Dr. Ken Schweifler, a dentist in Palo Alto, CA, describes how to best take care of your porcelain veneers.
Porcelain Veneers Aftercare
Pay Attention to Your Bite
It might take some time to adjust to the feeling of porcelain veneers over your teeth. The fixtures are cap-like shells that secure to the front of your teeth with bonding for a permanent fit.
These shells are custom-made according to the unique size, shape, and color of your teeth and your aesthetic goals. Your dentist will ensure a perfect fit while you are in the office. However, if you notice your veneers are loose or misaligned while at home, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible to avoid potential damage.
Avoid Abnormal Pressure
Porcelain veneers are constructed to endure the typical wear and tear of your regular teeth, and dental bonding ensures a strong attachment to your enamel. However, veneers are susceptible to breakage if exposed to abnormal amounts of pressure.
For this reason, you should avoid biting down on hard items while wearing veneers. This includes fingernails, ice, or the end of a pen. Staying aware of your oral habits can protect your porcelain veneers from accidental harm.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Veneers are stain-resistant, but they can gather bacteria just like your regular teeth. Bacteria form a film of plaque throughout the day that is removed with teeth brushing and flossing.
If left untreated, plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, which will destabilize support for your porcelain veneers. A good oral hygiene routine involves brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. Ideally, flossing should occur at night to remove plaque between teeth that forms during the day. Rinsing with mouth wash can eliminate excess bacteria in hard-to-reach places in your mouth too.
Porcelain Veneers and More in Palo Alto, CA
Dr. Schweifler provides porcelain veneers and other cosmetic dental treatments to patients in Palo Alto, CA. Our practice also specializes in restorative and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 650.489.4620.