How to Preserve Your Porcelain Veneers

Patients seeking long-term treatment to boost the appearance of their smile can feel satisfied with porcelain veneers. These fixtures feature cap-like shells that a dentist secures to the front of a patient’s teeth to create a more even and brighter smile.

Once you experience this smile enhancement, you will want to make sure you can enjoy these effects for as long as possible. This means that you should practice careful maintenance after receiving your veneers. Dr. R. Edward Hudgens, a dentist located in Charleston, SC, lists three steps that you can take to get the maximum benefits from your porcelain veneers.

AFTERCARE ADVICE FOR PORCELAIN VENEERS

NOTICE YOUR BITE

Your dentist constructs porcelain veneers according to your aesthetic goals and unique dental structure, assuring that you get a customized and comfortable fit. When they adhere veneers to your teeth, they check that they do not interfere with your ability to close your mouth properly.

It may take some time to get used to the sensation of veneers over your teeth. However, if you notice that your veneers seem loose or ill-fitting, let your dentist know. They can make adjustments that ensure that your veneers will give you the best smile enhancement possible.

AVOID HIGH PRESSURE ON YOUR TEETH

Veneers are designed to withstand the everyday wear and tear that your teeth experience, but extreme levels of pressure could cause porcelain veneers to dislodge or break. For this reason, you should avoid biting down on hard objects, including the end of a pen or ice.

You should also tell your dentist if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth. They may recommend that you wear a mouthguard at night to protect your smile from damage that may occur from teeth grinding that may happen as you sleep.

CONTINUE GOOD ORAL HYGIENE HABITS

You learn from a young age that you should brush your teeth twice each day and floss daily to keep your smile clean and healthy. Though porcelain veneers do not stain or decay, you should still continue these good oral hygiene habits.

Porcelain veneers may still accrue plaque or other residues that can spread to your underlying teeth and cause dental damage. Your cosmetic dental treatment will work best with a strong foundation of healthy teeth, so maintaining your smile is important.

You should also visit your dentist for routine dental cleanings and exams. They can ensure your teeth stay clean and spot potential problems and offer treatment before they can interfere with the appearance of your smile and porcelain veneers.

Get Porcelain Veneers from Your Charleston, SC Dentist

Dr. Hudgens provides porcelain veneers and other cosmetic dental treatments to patients in Charleston, SC. Our practice also specializes in general and restorative dentistry, including tooth replacement solutions, for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with our team, contact our office by phone at 843.418.9354 or reach our staff online.