How To Take Care of Veneers: Aftercare Guide

Veneers can beautifully transform smiles by correcting an array of imperfections. But like all dental work, they require proper at-home care and routine professional attention to uphold their appearance and function over the long run. By understanding and following some basic veneer aftercare guidelines, recipients can protect their investment for many years of flawless smiles.

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Understanding Dental Veneers 

Veneers are ultra-thin facings, typically made of durable dental porcelain, individually shaped and bonded to front tooth surfaces. This façade masks flaws like stains, chips, gaps, or crooked positioning to create picture-perfect smiles. While incredibly natural looking and stain-resistant, veneers can chip or dislodge if subjected to excessive impact or stress over time. That’s why appropriate care is key.

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Daily Oral Hygiene Routines

Preventative home care forms the foundation for maintaining vibrant, pristine veneer smiles over the long term. Patients should continue brushing twice daily with non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste, taking care to thoroughly reach teeth surfaces beneath veneer edges. Flossing remains equally critical as well to remove food debris from tight interdental crevices. Rinsing additionally with an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash adds extra germ-fighting action for full protection. Together, all these simple daily steps inhibit bacteria and help prevent periodontal problems.

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Being Consistent with Professional Care

Alongside diligent daily oral hygiene performed at home, visiting the dentist's office for regular professional cleanings and check-ups also allows early detection of any underlying dental issues. During these important bi-annual cleanings, dentists thoroughly remove accumulated tartar and plaque buildup from around both natural teeth structures and veneer restorations. Thorough clinical examinations also closely assess veneers for subtle signs of damage or loosening that may require prompt attention if observed. This consistent professional preventative care helps nip minor problems in the bud before they have a chance to escalate into more complex and difficult repairs down the road.

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Habits to Avoid

While incredibly durable, veneers cannot endure the same stresses as natural enamel over extended periods of time. Patients should refrain from biting nails, chewing ice or other hard objects that can damage the thin material. Clenching and grinding habits also require correction, either through behavior modification techniques, nightguards or Botox injections. And during sports or rigorous physical activities, protective mouthguards shield veneers from fracture or dislodgement. Preventing damage in the first place is always the wisest approach for long-lasting veneer integrity and beauty!

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Restore Your Winning Smile 

If your veneers already show some wear or you’re considering this transformative option for the first time, turn to our team at Marks Family Dentistry. Dr. Aaron Marks brings artistic skill with leading-edge cosmetic solutions for stunning, natural enhancements. His passion for dentistry shines through in every smile he creates. Contact us in Mechanicsville, VA today at (804) 746-3336 to schedule your appointment!