Looking for a long-lasting dental solution that will improve the appearance of your teeth? Porcelain veneers are custom-made caps that attach to the front of the teeth to make your smile appear brighter and straighter.

Once you experience the cosmetic dental benefits of veneers, you will want the effects to last for as long as possible. You should follow aftercare guidelines from your dentist to preserve the structure of these dental fixtures. Read on to find three tips that will help you get the most out of your porcelain veneers.

Aftercare Advice for New Porcelain Veneers

Watch Out for Bite Problems

Dentists make porcelain veneers on a personalized basis for each patient. This way you can count on a final look that will appear both gorgeous and natural in your unique smile. They will also then fit securely and comfortably in your mouth.

The dentist will attach the cap-like shells to the teeth using dental bonding for a strong hold that you can trust. They will also check your bite before you leave their office to make sure your new fixtures will not disrupt your oral function.

It may take some time to get used to the way the veneers feel over your teeth. But if the veneers feel loose or misaligned, you should tell your dentist. Ill-fitting veneers could easily dislodge or break and therefore require repair work, so address this problem promptly.

Do Not Bite Down on Hard Items

Your dentist designs porcelain veneers to withstand the everyday wear and tear that your teeth endure when biting and chewing. But under high amounts of pressure, veneers could crack, break, or fall off of the teeth.

To prevent this, you should avoid biting down on hard-textured items when possible. Examples include fingernails, the end of a pen, and ice.

If you do sustain damage to your veneers, you should call your dentist as soon as you can. Damaged veneers can leave your underlying teeth exposed, heightening your risk of dental dangers like tooth decay.

Continue Good Oral Hygiene

Many dental patients appreciate that porcelain veneers resist staining as well as decay. But veneers will still gather plaque on their surface each day. If not removed effectively, the plaque will spread to your teeth and gums and wreak havoc on your oral health.

Therefore, you should continue healthy oral hygiene habits. This will entail brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily. You should also visit your dentist for routine teeth cleanings.  

During these appointments, your dentist scrapes away plaque and tartar build-up from spots in the mouth your toothbrush cannot always reach. The dentist can also examine your smile for potential dental problems that might impact your cosmetic dental work.

For instance, gum disease and cavities could damage your dental health and make veneers no longer fit as they should. Talk to your dentist to find a preventative dentistry treatment plan that suits your unique dental needs.