How to Make the Most of Veneers

Porcelain veneers are one of the best ways to dramatically transform your smile. These thin, porcelain shells go over your natural teeth, covering all sorts of imperfections. In addition, they often make your teeth whiter in the process.

Veneers can give you the brighter, more even teeth you desire. Most people can expect veneers to last at least 10 years, but your habits play a big role in their lifespan. To learn more, Dr. Thomas D. Sokoly of Sokoly Dental explains how to make the most of veneers.

How to make veneers last longer

While the minimum expected lifespan of veneers is about 10 years, it’s possible to make them last 15 years or even longer. Largely, it’s your habits that determine how long your veneers last. To keep them looking beautiful and new for as long as possible, keep the following tips in mind.

Avoid dark-colored foods and drinks

If you want to keep your teeth as white as possible, you should try to limit or avoid certain dark-colored foods and drinks. Red wine, coffee, tea, and blueberries can all stain your teeth, and they can reverse the benefits of veneers or tooth whitening. If you really miss red wine or coffee, you can always try to minimize the damage by using a straw and rinsing your mouth after drinking them.

Don’t use your teeth as tools

Many people — not just those who have veneers — are guilty of using their teeth to open packages or even bite their nails. This is a potentially damaging habit for everyone’s teeth, but it’s especially bad when you have veneers, as you could chip or crack the thin porcelain shells.

Brush and floss regularly

Brushing and flossing your teeth are important for a good dental hygiene routine. But they’re especially important when you have veneers, because regular brushing and flossing can keep your teeth healthy and your veneers intact. If you notice any changes in your teeth, make sure to call Dr. Sokoly right away.

Don’t clench or grind your teeth

Clenching or grinding your teeth is another habit that damages your teeth, whether or not you have veneers. But when you have veneers, it’s even more important to avoid, since the constant pressure leads to faster wear. If you grind your teeth, Dr. Sokoly can fit you with a night guard that you can wear while you sleep to protect your teeth.

Wear a mouthguard while playing sports

You should wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth while playing any sports, even if they’re not the kind that involve a lot of bodily contact. Playing sports can result in events like having a ball hit you in the mouth, which can crack your veneers. 

Porcelain veneers can cover cracks, chips, stained teeth, and other dental imperfections that leave you with a smile that’s less than perfect. They’re a worthwhile investment in your appearance and dental health, and it’s important to protect that investment. If you’d like to learn more about veneers, call Sokoly Dental at 202-280-2428, or request an appointment online.