Porcelain veneers are some of the most versatile treatment options available. With veneers, many patients can experience a brighter, stronger, and straighter smile. With the right care and maintenance, porcelain veneers in Towson, MD, could last up to twenty years. As long as you follow the proper cleaning procedures and continue to see your dentist regularly, you can help extend the life of your new smile.
How to Care for Porcelain Veneers in Towson, MD
When you get porcelain veneers, the first day or two are often the most crucial to avoid damage. It’s generally a good idea to avoid chewing with your new veneers, especially hard or chewing foods. These can often cause your veneer to fracture or even come loose before it fully sets. If you do damage your veneer or if it falls out, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible to get it repaired or replaced.
Caring for Temporary Veneers
For most patients, getting veneers is a two-appointment process. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing a small layer of enamel. Then, they’ll take an impression of your bite to fabricate your veneers. While you’re waiting for the porcelain veneers to be made, you’ll need a set of temporary veneers to protect your teeth. These veneers are often less durable than permanent veneers. Therefore, it’s even more important that you avoid damaging foods or chewing habits.
Oral Hygiene
One of the best ways to extend the life of your veneers is to keep up with your oral hygiene. With veneers, you should be able to brush and floss as you normally would. While the porcelain material is not as affected by plaque as tooth enamel, you still need to clean and protect the natural tooth under your veneer. Your dentist may recommend adding mouthwash to your current hygiene routine to help prevent plaque and tartar buildup.
Routine Dental Exams
You should always make it a habit of calling your dentist if you experience any unusual conditions with your veneers. But routine dental exams and cleanings can help catch the early warning signs of a problem. Seeing your dentist at least every six months is a great way to keep your veneers strong and vibrant for years to come. During your exam, your dentist can track your oral health to help provide further recommendations on how to care for your veneers.
If you are unhappy with the look of your smile, porcelain veneers may be able to help. At Sweet Tooth Dentistry, we work hard to help our patients reach and maintain their cosmetic dental goals. Call us today at 410-449-7656 to schedule a consultation and see if veneers could be right for you. If veneers aren’t available for your case, we’ll help create a treatment plan designed to improve your smile.