Veneers have allowed millions of people to completely transform their smiles in as few as two appointments. They are the open secret behind the flawless smiles of many Hollywood stars, and you’ve probably seen them many times without even realizing it. While veneers are made out of incredibly lifelike and durable materials, they still require proper oral hygiene to last for as long as they can while maintaining a beautiful appearance. Here’s why it’s crucial to take excellent care of your teeth after getting veneers.
Can Veneers Develop Cavities?
Veneers are made out of high-quality materials like porcelain and ceramic, which are indigestible to the oral bacteria that cause cavities. While veneers cannot get cavities themselves, they still require healthy teeth to function properly. If the tooth supporting a veneer develops a cavity, it will have to be treated to prevent tooth loss. If the cavity is especially large, the veneer will have to be removed and replaced, meaning the patient will experience a frustrating and potentially costly setback in their cosmetic treatment.
How Can I Keep My Veneers in Excellent Shape?
Luckily, caring for your teeth after receiving veneers isn’t a major production. You only have to practice the same proper oral hygiene regimen that your teeth required in the first place. In addition to regular dental appointments and avoiding excessive sugar consumption, this includes a daily regimen of:
- Brushing: A soft-bristled toothbrush is a powerful tool in the fight against tooth decay. Using a non-abrasive toothpaste, polish every surface of your teeth with gentle, circular strokes. This will eliminate most plaque and food debris.
- Flossing: Dental floss is just as crucial for your oral health as brushing because it can reach places where your toothbrush cannot. Cut off a length of floss and use a clean section to clean the sides of each tooth. If traditional floss isn’t your favorite, alternatives like floss picks and water flossers are available.
- Antibacterial mouthwash: This stuff can kill more than 99.9% of the harmful bacteria in your mouth. Everyone over six should use it daily to keep their mouth clean and their breath fresh.
Dental veneers can last for twenty-five years or more with excellent care. This will maximize the return on your investment and save you the inconvenience of frequent replacements.
About the Author
Dr. Deepti Namineni earned her dental doctorate from the New York University School of Dentistry in 2012 and has worked in several private dental offices in the DFW area. She has a particular interest in helping people achieve more ideal smiles through cosmetic dentistry. Her office in Grand Prairie, TX offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as veneer treatments. For more information on caring for your veneers, contact the office online or dial (972) 573-4932.