If you have dental veneers, expect them to last a good while. The shells are sturdy – their makeup gives them an average lifespan of ten years! That being said, there are things you can (and should) do to make your veneers last longer. These tricks would help you get the most out of your treatment, ensuring its results don’t fade early. Just keep reading and let your Temple cosmetic dentist share a few with you.
Remember to Brush & Floss
For starters, you can help your veneers with good oral care. Daily brushing and flossing keep them functional longer than they’d be otherwise.
It comes down to how veneers need a clean mouth to work. If their underlying teeth suffer decay or infections, a dentist has to remove them for your care. That means you should always practice twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing. With these habits, your shells can stay put for a longer time.
Consider Using a Mouthguard
Another way to make veneers last is to use a mouthguard. By wearing this appliance, your shells will stay safe from outside forces.
You see, even veneers can chip, fracture, or break at times. They’ll often suffer from sports injuries, teeth grinding, etc. Luckily, a mouthguard can (and would) protect them from such things. Using one for sports would reduce the risk of dental injuries, and a nightguard should stop your nightly bruxism.
Quit (or Avoid) Bad Oral Habits
While veneers can handle eating and speaking, other oral habits don’t mix well with them. So, one way to help the shells last is to give up these “bad” practices.
Key examples of these habits to avoid are:
- Chewing Hard Objects – If you bite down on ice cubes, fingernails, or pens, you could easily chip or crack a veneer.
- Using Teeth as Tools – Using teeth to tear at packing tape may seem fine, but the habit could break your veneers.
- Smoking – Tobacco can stain veneers yellow and cause gum disease.
See Your Dentist Often
Lastly, you should see your dentist often if you want veneers that last. Regular checkups will ensure the shells don’t suffer an early failure.
Note that dental checkups are the best form of preventive dental care. By getting them every six months, a dentist can diagnose, treat, and prevent problems that threaten your shells. You’ll then be at less risk of short-lived veneer results.
If you want, you can learn other ways to make your veneers last longer. Talk to your dental provider – they’ll gladly share tips!
About the Author
Dr. Richard Fossum is a certified dentist in Temple, TX, having earned a DDS from the UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry. His thirty years in dental work have made him highly experienced in preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments that greatly transform smiles. That means you can trust him and his team for nearly any oral health needs! Today, Dr. Fossum practices at his self-titled clinic and is reachable on his website and by phone at (254)-778-3900.