A porcelain veneer is a super thin tooth-like shell made from white porcelain in order to restore the appearance, color or shape of a damaged tooth. Porcelain veneers can last up to 15 years if well maintained. This is a great advantage since the owner won’t experience cavities or decay that is common with natural teeth. In addition, they enable one to enjoy hot or chilled beverages without experiencing sharp pain brought about by tooth sensitivity.
Despite the advantages listed above, porcelain veneers are still susceptible to damage from certain factors which also affect your teeth negatively. Here are 8 proven tips you should use to keep your porcelain veneers in ship-shape.
1. Use whitening toothpaste
Porcelain veneers require frequent cleaning to avoid discoloration. This is effectively carried out using whitening toothpaste to effectively eradicate food particles lodged between the teeth or plaque. It’s advisable to brush your teeth twice a day using whitening toothpaste recommended by your dentists, since certain brands are known to corrode the veneers’ outer layers.
2. Minimize consumption of beverages which cause teeth stains
Frequent consumption of soda, red wine, coffee or black tea leads to teeth discoloration. These beverages have the same discoloration effect on porcelain veneers as they do on natural teeth. Avoid daily consumption of the beverages mentioned above to preserve your porcelain veneers. Remember to brush your teeth right after consuming black coffee, tea or sodas.
3. Quit Cigarette smoking
Cigarettes usually contain nicotine and tar which are known to cause heavy teeth discoloration. Just like your natural teeth, porcelain veneers are vulnerable to nicotine and tar deposits. Kick smoking out of your life and you’ll benefit from having a clean set of teeth.
4. Brush and Floss your teeth daily
Flossing gets rid of food particles stuck between the teeth. When left unchecked, these decaying food particles can cause plaque and other teeth discoloration diseases. Brushing and flossing regularly will keep your teeth clean hence maintaining their white appearance for longer.
5. Bite foods gently
Porcelain teeth may be harder than natural teeth but they still crack or chip under heavy pressure. Foods such as apples, pears or steak require plenty of biting and vigorous chewing before swallowing. You need to chew softly or chop them up into manageable pieces to avoid overwhelming your teeth with excess force.
6. Get a new toothbrush after every three months
The bristles contained in a toothbrush get worn out after three months of frequent use. It’s pointless to brush your teeth using a dilapidated toothbrush since it cannot effectively get rid of tiny food particles and smears on your porcelain veneers. Using a new toothbrush will maintain your teeth in a healthy state.
7. Avoid abrasive toothbrushes
It’s important to ensure your toothbrush has firm but gentle bristles while brushing your porcelain veneers. Bristles that are rough will scratch and crack your porcelain veneers terribly.
Conclusion
By incorporating the 7 tips highlighted above into your daily routine, you’ll maintain an amazingly white smile. Do your porcelain veneers require a quick checkup? Get the best advice and cosmetic dental solutions at Perfect Smile Spa.