How to Maintain Your Veneers

Deciding to improve the look of your smile with veneers is a big decision, and it can do a lot to help boost your confidence and help you smile more brightly. To preserve your new and improved appearance, you'll want to be a bit more mindful about how you care for your teeth and your new set of veneers. 

What Are Veneers?

One of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments available, veneers are wafer-thin shells (usually porcelain or composite resin) that are designed to fit over the visible, front surfaces of the teeth to improve the aesthetic appearance of a person's smile. 

Dental veneers offer a variety of cosmetic benefits such as:

• Improved smile symmetry and balance
• Correcting the appearance of irregularly sized or shaped teeth
• Covering tooth gaps
• Creating the appearance of a straight smile
• Masking stubborn discoloration and stains
• Covering chipped teeth

Dental Veneer Treatment Options

There are a few different types of dental veneers available, providing patients with a variety of treatment options that offer different benefits. The most popular types of dental veneers include:

• Porcelain Veneers - These are the most common type of dental veneers used. Porcelain is, by far, the most natural-looking material used in cosmetic dentistry. It is also highly durable. Porcelain dental veneers are permanent and will need to be maintained throughout your lifetime. 
• Composite Veneers - Composite veneers use composite resin, the same material in tooth-colored fillings, to create a veneer over the front of a tooth. These veneers are usually less expensive than porcelain veneers, but composite resin is not quite as durable. Compared to porcelain veneers, less preparation is required on the tooth enamel surface for the placement of composite veneers. 
• Snap-On Veneers - Snap-on or pop-on veneers are an excellent option for a patient who wants to try out the look of dental veneers without committing to the treatment for life. These veneers easily snap on and off of your teeth to create your desired look and then return to your normal self when you're finished wearing them. While not as practical for daily wear, snap-on veneers are a good option for special occasions, pageants, or photos. 

How Much Do Dental Veneers Cost?

The price of veneers is dependent on several factors and, as a result, it tends to vary from case to case. Some of the factors that can affect the cost of veneers include:

• Type of veneers
• Number of veneers
• Any preparatory or restorative dental work or other treatments that are needed prior to placing veneers

Additionally, insurance coverage can affect the price of veneers. However, most dental insurance plans do not cover the cost of dental veneers, except in some extenuating circumstances. 

When you invest in dental veneers, you're investing in your smile and your confidence. So, you'll want to take good care of your veneers to prolong their lifespan and protect your investment. 

Protecting Your Investment: 7 Things to Do (and Not Do) to Maintain Your Veneers

1. Keep Up With Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Keeping your teeth healthy will help to preserve your veneers. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes and floss at least once per day. You can also add alcohol-free mouthwash to your daily routine. Be sure to visit the dentist for a checkup and cleaning every six months. 

2. Don't Use Your Teeth as Tools

Don't use your teeth to open plastic bags or cut a piece of string in half. Using your teeth as tools can damage your veneers. 

3. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

Brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush will help preserve the surfaces of your veneers and keep them resistant to stains.

4. Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects

Chewing on things like ice or pen caps can damage and break your veneers. 

5. Wear an Athletic Mouthguard

Protect your veneers during sports and athletic activities with a risk of any kind of impact. 

6. Wear a Nightguard If You Suffer From Sleep Bruxism

If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw during sleep, then you'll need to protect your veneers with a nightguard.

7. Avoid Highly Pigmented Foods and Drinks

Dark-colored soda, red wine, coffee, tea, berries, and chocolate can all stain your veneers. Enjoy them sparingly and be sure to rinse with water right after. 

Revitalize Your Smile and Boost Your Confidence With Our Dentist in Stuart, FL

Searching for "veneers near me?" Search no more! Our highly experienced team at Aesthetic Dentistry of Stuart can help you revitalize and refresh your appearance with a new set of dental veneers or repairs to your existing veneers. Additionally, we offer a range of comprehensive restorative and cosmetic dental treatment options, and we can work with you to simultaneously optimize your oral health, restore your smile, and revitalize your appearance. 

To learn more or request an appointment, we welcome you to contact our dental office in Stuart, Florida today.