Expert Tips to Avoid Bad Veneers

Veneers are thin shells designed to resemble teeth that dentists use to enhance a smile. They disguise the appearance of less-than-perfect teeth, transforming your smile. However, they are prone to damage or discoloration. Read on for tips from the dentist in Westminster to learn how you can avoid bad veneers.

How Do Veneers Transform Your Smile?

Veneers by a dentist near you correct teeth that are less than ideal, enhancing their appearance. The thin tooth-like shells are placed on the front tooth surface to disguise its looks. Veneers can be used to correct one flawed tooth or transform your smile. A smile makeover with veneers requires placing several veneers on the smiling teeth.

Your dentist will choose the right type of veneer material to achieve the desired effects. They may pick porcelain or composite veneers that blend with the color of your teeth. They will custom-make the veneers to enhance your smile and facial features.

A dentist can custom-make suitable veneers to correct minor dental flaws. Veneers can repair discolored, worn down, chipped, cracked or slightly misaligned teeth. They also transform the appearance of small-gapped and unevenly shaped or sized teeth.

Are Veneers Bad for Teeth?

No, dental veneers are not harmful to teeth. In previous years, dentists used to drill out some tooth enamel to enable veneer placement. Fortunately, they use thinner veneers nowadays. They do not require removing a part of the tooth enamel. Therefore, you will have the option to remove them and stay without them in the future.

In addition, your dentist will use cutting-edge adhesive technologies to bond the veneer to your teeth. This will ensure bacteria and plaque cannot enter beneath the shells causing decay. Also, the dentist will give you tips to prevent damaging the teeth beneath the veneers. For example, they will advise you to avoid jaw clenching, nail biting or chewing on hard foods.

Expert Tips for Avoiding Bad Veneers

When placing dental veneers, your dentist will ensure they look perfect. They will customize your veneers to look natural and attractive. However, the shells may lose their attractiveness with time. This can occur due to issues like poor oral hygiene, bad oral habits or taking the wrong foods and drinks.

Below are tips from the experts at Fox Creek Dental by Espire Westminster to avoid bad veneers.

• Brush appropriately with the right toothbrush and toothpaste at least twice a day. Use proper brushing techniques to avoid damaging your veneers and eliminate all plaque.
• Keep the edges of your veneers clean by flossing at least once daily. Use floss that does not shred and slides easily between your teeth. You can request your dentist to demonstrate the proper flossing techniques to avoid displacing the veneers.
• Use a brand of toothpaste without abrasives. They can damage the surfaces of your veneers. Avoid those with hydrogen peroxide and sodium bicarbonate because they dull veneers.
• Do not use tobacco products, as they lead to staining and discoloration. They contain nicotine which causes white veneers to have a bad aesthetic appeal.
• Avoid frequently consuming foods and beverages high in sugars and acids. They impact the health of your natural teeth and the longevity of your cosmetic restorations. Clean your teeth whenever you consume them to reduce their harmful effects.
• Avoid chewing or biting hard foods with your veneered teeth. They can chip, break or displace your veneers or the natural teeth underneath your shells.
• Do not use your veneered teeth to open bottle tops or packages. Also, do not bite your nails or chew on hard things like pens, pencils or ice to avoid veneer damage.
• Limit the exposure of your veneers to teeth-staining food and drinks. They include coffee, sauces, red wine and berries. Rinse or brush whenever you take them. this reduces their staining effects keeping your veneers whiter for longer.
• Use a customized mouthguard when participating in sports or activities with a high fall risk. If you have bruxism, use a nightguard to reduce the effects of jaw clenching and teeth grinding. The mouthguard will prevent damage to your veneers.
• Visit the dentist regularly for checkups. They will help you care for your veneers and the natural tooth. Also, they will repair or replace bad veneers improving your smile.