19 January 2022
Veneers- how to extend their life
Porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years and composites around 5 years. However, if you look after them you can extend their life and get much longer out of them. Here are our top 5 tips for caring for them.
1. Maintain a good level of oral hygiene
You must brush twice per day for at least 2 minutes and also floss nightly, just as you would your normal teeth. Veneers are not resistant to the build up of plaque so therefore you must clean them thoroughly and consistently.
2. Attend 6 monthly check-ups and hygiene visits to keep veneers clean
These help to remove the built up plaque that your toothbrush can’t remove. If you leave it too long between visits the veneers may even have to be removed to access the area, which you really don’t want.
Regular dental check ups and hygiene appointments will help to extend the life of your veneers
3.Be careful of teeth grinding (bruxism)
This can happen when we’re stressed and is common at night. A nightguard can be made for protection at night if you’re worried you might suffer from this.
4. Don’t chew hard foods
Direct pressure on the end of a veneer may cause it to damage. Therefore it is recommended that you do not bite directly onto hard foods such as ice, raw carrots, nuts etc. Instead, chop them up into small pieces as a damaged veneer will need to be replaced. This goes for objects too- avoid chewing on pens and things if you have a habit of doing so.
5. Avoid staining foods to keep veneers pearly white
Porcelain veneers are resistant to staining, however some staining foods/drink can tarnish their pearly white appearance. Composites however, are not resistant to staining so you need to be especially careful if you have these. Therefore you should avoid having too much of things like tea, coffee or red wine.
If you follow these care tips, you will extend the life of your composite or porcelain veneers. if you would like more information on either of these treatments follow these links:
https://www.cheadlehulmedental.com/treatment/dental-veneers-manchester.html
https://www.cheadlehulmedental.com/treatment/composite-veneers-manchester.html
Watch our video for further information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UkbLhgVdRhY