If you’re looking for a simple and effective way to brighten and shape your smile, veneers are an excellent choice. These thin porcelain shells are highly durable and blend right in as they perfect the color, size, and shape of your teeth. After you have them put in by your dentist, you should exercise some caution to prevent damage and discoloration. Here’s how you can keep your new smile in top shape.

How to Take Care of Veneers

1. Choose the Right Tools

Some kinds of toothpaste contain abrasive ingredients that can damage both your veneers and teeth over time. Avoid any labels that list substances like baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and sodium bicarbonate.

Likewise, cheap, hard-bristle toothbrushes can gradually wear down the polish. Always choose soft-bristle brushes.

2. Get Your Dental Routine Down

Because veneers are strong and sturdy, as long as you’re already practicing good oral hygiene, you shouldn’t need to change your dental routine. Make sure to brush at least twice a day and floss once as well. Proper dental habits will protect your teeth and reduce your risk of developing gum disease.

3. Consider a Mouth Guard

Whether you grind your teeth in your sleep, practice contact sports, or frequently catch yourself clenching your jaw, you may want to talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard. Veneers can easily withstand the normal pressures of eating and dental care, but unusual and harsh forces may wear down and damage the porcelain.

4. Avoid Staining Substances

The porcelain is stain-resistant, but the adhesive that binds it to your teeth is not. Try to avoid or limit substances such as coffee, tea, soft drinks, red wine, berries, and cigarettes. To minimize staining along the edges, drink beverages through a straw and brush your teeth after partaking in any of these items.

5. See Your Dentist Regularly

While you should always visit the dentist every six months, it’s especially important to make these appointments when you have veneers. Your dentist can check for any problems with the adhesion or quality of the porcelain and make necessary repairs. As always, they’ll ensure your gums and teeth are healthy, which will have the added bonus of prolonging the life of your veneers.

If you want a bright, dazzling smile when other teeth whitening solutions have only left you disappointed, schedule a veneer treatment with Judy Walker, DDS. Based in Greensboro, NC, Dr. Walker and her skilled team provide a broad range of services to the Guilford County area. From thorough yet gentle teeth cleanings and oral cancer screenings to fillings and restoration treatments, this family dentistry practice offers state-of-the-art equipment and technology to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. Visit their website to learn more about cosmetic dental services. To set up an appointment, call  (336) 202-2556 today.