Are you looking for a way to improve the look of your smile? If you’re considering dental veneers to improve your smile, you’re in good company! Veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world. A veneer is a thin shell of porcelain or composite that is bonded to the front surface of a tooth. They are made of durable materials that can last for many years with proper care. In this blog post, we will discuss how to keep your veneers white and looking their best!
What are Veneers?
There are two types of veneers: porcelain and composite. Porcelain veneers are made of a ceramic material that is durable and can last for many years. Porcelain veneers are usually placed in two appointments. The first appointment is to take impressions of your teeth and to place a temporary veneer on your tooth. A dental lab will then fabricate the veneers and the second appointment is used to place the permanent porcelain veneer on your tooth.
Composite veneers are made of a plastic material that is less durable than porcelain, but can be less expensive. Composite veneers are placed in a single appointment. The dentist will roughen the surface of your tooth and then apply a bonding agent. The composite material is then placed on top of the bonding agent and sculpted into shape. A curing light is then used to harden the composite material.
Dental veneers are an excellent way to improve the look of your smile. They can be used to correct a wide variety of imperfections, including:
- gaps between teeth
- misshapen or chipped teeth
- stained or discolored teeth
- crooked or misaligned teeth
How to Keep Your Veneers White
When it comes to keeping your veneers white, it is important to note that composite veneers stain easier than porcelain. Porcelain veneers are made to be stain-resistant, although they can still stain if they become damaged. With proper care, your veneers can last for many years. Here are some tips on how to keep your veneers looking their best:
Good Oral Hygiene:
This is the most important factor in keeping your veneers white and healthy. Be sure to brush twice a day and floss regularly. This removes plaque from the surface of your veneers and minimizes the chances of it hardening into tartar.
Schedule Regular Teeth Cleanings:
Be sure to see your dentist or hygienist every six months for a professional cleaning. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar, which keeps your veneers looking clean. They also keep the underlying teeth healthy and free from decay.
Minimize Drinking Certain Beverages:
Dark colas, coffee, tea, and red wine can all cause staining on teeth. If you do drink these beverages, try using a straw and be sure to brush afterwards or rinse your mouth with water.
Use a Soft Bristled Toothbrush:
Hard bristled toothbrushes can be damaging to veneers since they can scratch the porcelain and lead to stains. Instead, using a soft bristled toothbrush will help avoid scratching the surface of your veneers.
Wear a Night Guard:
If you grind your teeth at night, be sure to wear a night guard to protect your veneers. Night guards are designed to fit over the teeth in order to prevent your teeth and veneers from being chipped, cracked, or worn down from excess grinding.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your veneers looking their best for many years to come! Thanks for reading! And be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist if you have any questions.
Dr. Sadati possesses extensive experience in all aspects of advanced restorative dentistry, with an emphasis in cosmetic and implant dentistry. He has attained Accredited Fellow status in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), the most rigorous, demanding credentialing process in the world. He is the only AACD Accredited Fellow in South Florida.
