Porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-coloured dental veneers made of porcelain. They are custom-made to fit over the front surface of existing teeth. People often get porcelain veneers for cosmetic reasons such as improving the size, shape, and overall appearance of their smiles. If you’ve recently gotten porcelain veneers or are looking into porcelain veneers, here are some tips and recommendations from us at Terra Dental Care in porcelain veneers in downtown Calgary.
Daily Care Tips for Porcelain Veneers
Brushing and flossing techniques
One of the biggest issues people with new porcelain veneers encounter is how to brush and floss. Someone who is used to brushing somewhat aggressively will have to soften their brushing force. Aggressive brushing can lead to chips or cracks in the veneers. This is the case with flossing as well. People used to flossing aggressively or quickly must slow things down, especially around each individual veneer.
Recommended toothpaste and toothbrushes
A toothbrush with softer bristles is preferred for veneers, the same way it is for your natural smile. Hard bristles can wear away the polish on veneers. A fluoride toothpaste is excellent, too; toothpaste with little abrasive particles can be good for cleaning teeth, however, it can also wear away at porcelain veneers. Toothpaste with hydrated silica or baking soda is safe for tooth enamel but can be hard on porcelain veneers.
Foods and drinks to avoid or limit
Here are some types of food and drinks that are worth keeping in mind when looking to protect your porcelain veneers in the long run.
Hard and Crunchy Foods
Avoid biting into hard foods like ice cubes, hard candies and popcorn kernels. Consider cutting foods like carrots and larger nuts into smaller pieces. These can cause chips or fractures in the veneers.
Sticky or Chewy Foods
Foods like taffy, caramels, or chewing gum can put excessive stress on the veneers or even dislodge them.
Staining Agents
Although porcelain veneers are resistant to staining, minimizing consumption of food and drinks known to cause discoloration, such as tea, coffee, red wine, pop, berries, tomato sauce and beets, is a good idea. One way to help you if you will consume these foods is to rinse your mouth with water after or even brush your teeth.
Foods High in Acidity
From citrus fruits to kinds of vinegar to carbonated beverages, acidic foods and beverages can weaken tooth enamel and possibly damage veneers over time. Similarly, with the staining agents, consider rinsing with water or brushing your teeth after consumption.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a serious one to remember as continuous alcohol consumption can weaken the bonding cement that keeps the veneers attached. This can lead to dislodgement and corrosion. Alcohol can also cause staining and damage.
Regular Maintenance for Porcelain Veneers
While porcelain veneers are designed to be durable and stain-resistant, they still require regular care and maintenance to preserve their appearance and functionality. Aside from tips on brushing and eating, here are some more maintenance tips.
Regular dental check-ups
It is recommended you regularly visit your dentist in downtown Calgary for check-ups and cleanings. They will examine the condition of the veneers to make sure all is still in good condition. They can also polish the veneers to remove any surface stains and provide guidance regarding ongoing maintenance.
Avoid chewing hard objects
It is common for people to chew on their nails or the end of a pencil. Some people go as far as to open packages or bottles with their teeth. However, this increases the risk of replacing your veneers as well as causing damage to your teeth. It’s important to steer clear of chewing or bing down onto hard objects.
Avoid bruxism (teeth-grinding)
If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, inform a dentist near you as this is harmful to your smile over time. Bruxism can put excessive pressure on the veneers and lead to damage. Your dentist may recommend you wear a nightguard (mouthguard worn while sleeping) to protect your veneers while you sleep.
Mouthguard for contact sports
It is often required to wear a mouthguard in most contact sports leagues. It is fair to consider wearing a mouthguard when it may not be required or if you’re playing casually with friends or family. Minimizing any risk of your veneers making hard contact with the rest of your teeth is ideal.
Don’t smoke
Smoking is just as bad for your veneers as it is for your natural teeth. It can create stains and discoloration on your veneers that can be difficult to remove.
Handling Issues with Porcelain Veneers
If you are experiencing issues with your porcelain veneers its important to address them promptly. Contact your dentist in downtown Calgary immediately if you notice any changes such as chips, cracks or looseness in your veneers. Early intervention can prevent further damage and ensure the best possible outcome.
Interested in Receiving Porcelain Veneers Near You?
The key points to remember when taking care of your porcelain veneers are to use a soft-bristled toothbrush with toothpaste with few-to-no abrasive particles. Avoid hard, sticky, staining, acidic food and beverages or brush after consumption. The number one point to remember is to visit your dentist in downtown Calgary to ensure everything stays in good condition and issues can be quickly remedied.
Are you looking for porcelain veneers near you? Book your consultation regarding porcelain veneers in downtown Calgary with Terra Dental Care. Reach out to us via phone or email today!
Phone – (587) 330-2080
Email – info@terradentalcare.com
FAQ
1. Can porcelain veneers stain or discolour over time?
Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining and discoloration compared to regular teeth. They can still experience slight changes in colour over time, depending on how well they have been taken care of over the years.
2. Is it possible to replace or remove porcelain veneers?
Yes, it is possible; however, speaking with your dentist about why is important. Looking to replace a cracked or chipped veneer is the most common reason.
3. Can I still participate in contact sports or other high-impact activities with porcelain veneers?
As long as things are put in place to protect you and your veneers, such as a mouthguard, contact sports are no issue to porcelain veneers.
