Receiving porcelain veneers in Carrollton is an exciting change for your overall appearance. Not only are you able to cover the imperfections existing on your smile, but this beneficial cosmetic solution can boost your confidence – something that may have been missing when cracks, chips, and stains plagued your pearly whites. If you want to make sure your smile lasts as long as possible, read on to find out what tips you can use to properly care for and maintain your veneers.
Can Porcelain Veneers Be Removed?
While many dentists claim that porcelain veneers are permanent, that’s not entirely the case. These thin shell coverings are meant to last a decade or more if you take care of them; however, it is possible for your veneer to become damaged. As a result, your cosmetic dentist in Carrollton will need to remove and replace it. It’s important that should this happen, only your dentist should remove the veneer, as they have the proper tools and equipment to do it safely and effectively.
How Can You Extend the Life of Your Veneers?
To prevent damage to your veneers, there are some things you can do to help them last longer. While not all chips, cracks, and breaks are avoidable, try following these tips to minimize the likeliness that you’ll need a veneer replacement:
- Maintain a good oral hygiene routine: This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and using an ADA-approved mouthwash. While the porcelain veneer cannot decay, the natural tooth underneath can, so it’s important to keep your oral health in check with or without veneers.
- Wear a mouthguard: If you’re prone to teeth grinding or clenching, or if you enjoy playing sports or engaging in outdoor activities, make sure you speak to your dentist about getting a custom-made nightguard. This will not only prevent excessive wear and tear on your teeth, but it will also reduce the chances of chips or cracks occurring within your veneers.
- Avoid hard, crunchy foods: If at all possible, avoid biting into anything hard or crunchy (i.e. fruits, raw vegetables, chips), as this could cause your veneer to crack or become chipped. It could also cause you to break a veneer and require a replacement.
- Don’t chew on ice or inanimate objects: Just like hard foods, chewing on ice or using your teeth as tools (i.e. opening bags) can lead to damaged veneers.
By following these simple steps, you can be well on your way to enjoying your new veneers for a longer length of time.
About the Author
Dr. Moji Chandy earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from NYU College of Dentistry and has been practicing dentistry for more than 12 years. Opening Aegis Dental in 2012, is highly trained and equipped to give patients new and improved smiles with the help of porcelain veneers. As a skilled cosmetic dentist, Dr. Chandy can cover imperfections and create a show-stopping smile, all while offering tips and suggestions on how to extend the life of your porcelain veneers through proper care and maintenance. To learn more, visit our website or call (972) 492-6700.