Porcelain veneers are versatile applications in dentistry that can treat minor stains, chips, cracks, and gaps in teeth, restoring a natural-looking smile. Once you’ve gotten your veneer, it’s crucial to take proper care of it to extend its life and preserve its natural appearance. Here are four big do’s and don’ts of caring for your veneer that you should know.

Do:

Report damages to your dentist.

Since veneers are thin porcelain, they can sometimes break, chip, or – with lots of time and wear – even come off your tooth. When the veneer is applied, a small amount of enamel is removed to make room for it, so not speaking with your dental professional when veneer damage occurs leaves your tooth’s inner tissues vulnerable to decay, damage, and sensitivity.

Follow your normal oral hygiene routine.

Your veneer won’t change how you care for your teeth daily. You’ll still need to brush, floss, and use mouthwash as recommended, and you should still visit your dental office routinely. This allows them to monitor the condition of the veneer, while regularly brushing minimizes stains. Your intake of acids and staining substances should be limited, too. While porcelain is hard to stain, it’s not impervious to them, and acids will make it easier for stains to set in as they soften the material.

Don’t:

Chew on hard objects.

While eating hard or crunchy foods as normal shouldn’t damage them, veneers can’t withstand the force applied when you chew on hard objects. This includes pens, pencils, ice, your fingernails, and hard candies. With chronic chewing, you’re very likely to experience cracks, chips, or removal of your veneer, which may damage the tooth underneath.

Use whitening products without consulting a professional first.

Some whitening products may damage the porcelain or cause discoloration, even if they’re ADA-approved. At-home whitening methods, like using charcoal or hydrogen peroxide rinses, can be especially damaging – not only to your veneer but to your other teeth, too. Your dental office can recommend appropriate whitening procedures that won’t cause damage or discoloration.

When you need a reliable dentist to apply or repair your veneer, reach out to Dr. Patrick M. Pitts, DMD, in Archdale, NC. This office specializes in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, from veneers to dentures to Invisalign®, but they can also meet your general dental needs, including cleanings and digital X-rays. With a dental team that’s encouraged to continue learning and challenging themselves, along with a state-of-the-art facility, you can rest assured you’ll have a picture-perfect smile when they’re done. Learn about some of their procedures online, and call (336) 431-0002 for an appointment.