Have you recently gotten veneers? If so, chances are you’ve never been happier about the way your smile looks! You finally have the bright, even set of pearly whites you’ve always wanted. Of course, if you want it to stay that way, you’ll have to take good care of your new smile. While the average veneer lasts between 10 and 15 years, it’s possible to extend the lifespan of veneers in Skokie beyond that. Here are five easy tips that will help you get the most out of your veneers.
1. Take Good Care of Your Teeth
One of the most common reasons why veneers have to be removed is decay in the teeth underneath them. Make sure you’re brushing your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day; fluoride strengthens your tooth enamel and reduces your risk for cavities. You should also floss and rinse with mouthwash every day. Just be sure to avoid any alcohol-based mouthwashes, as alcohol can weaken the bond between your veneer and your tooth.
2. Stay Away from Tobacco
Veneers might be more stain-resistant than enamel, but smoking can still give your veneers and teeth a yellow tint. Not only that, but smoking (and any type of tobacco use) makes you more susceptible to oral cancer, gum disease, and all sorts of health problems. Quitting this habit will benefit your smile as well as your overall well-being.
3. Be Wary of Certain Foods and Beverages
Chewing on ice, hard candy, raw carrots, or nuts can all chip or crack your veneers as well as your teeth. As mentioned earlier, alcohol can wear down the adhesive of your veneers, so consume wine, beer, or other alcoholic beverages in moderation.
4. Wear a Mouthguard
As durable as dental porcelain is, veneers are not indestructible. If you play sports or grind your teeth while you sleep, wearing a protective mouthguard is a must. Your dentist can custom-make you a mouthguard that fits more comfortably and shields your smile from damage more effectively than over-the-counter guards.
5. See Your Dentist Regularly
Good at-home oral hygiene is important, but so are routine dental checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can detect signs of problems early on, minimizing the risk that they’ll harm your veneers. The dental hygienist can also give your teeth a professional cleaning to remove plaque that, if left in place, could lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
Now that your dentist has given you a radiant smile with veneers in Skokie, it’s up to you to keep it that way! Follow these tips to keep your smile bright and dazzling for years to come.
About the Authors
At Weiss Dental Arts, Dr. Brad Weiss and Dr. Ali Fulreader provide compassionate, comprehensive dental care to patients in Skokie, IL. They have both undergone extensive training in cosmetic dentistry through the prestigious Pankey Institute. As a result, they understand the importance of caring for veneers. For more advice on extending the lifespan of your veneers in Skokie, visit our website or call (847) 864-0188.