You have a beautiful smile, every tooth a beautiful pearly white and all in the right place. This is all thanks to your new set of veneers. When well cared for, veneers can last for a long time, up to 20 years or more. To protect your investment and get the most out of your veneers, you will need to give them proper treatment.
Veneers are made of porcelain, making them similar to your natural teeth not only in color and translucency, but also in composition. Porcelain is a strong material that will not wear down over time. However, porcelain veneers can chip or break if you are rough with them. Just as with your natural teeth, avoid biting down on extremely hard substances, and never use your teeth as a tool to open packages or hold items.
Your veneers are also bonded to your teeth in the same fashion that a filling or a crown would be. While it is possible for them to come off, it is not a common occurrence. On top of that, shaping the tooth to fit the veneer ensures a tight fit for your custom-made veneers.This means that you can go about your day without worrying about them becoming loose or slipping off.
Porcelain is not unbreakable, and accidents can happen. If you are a bruxer and grind your teeth at night, the pressure can cause the veneers to chip or crack. If you are worried about this situation, there are preventative methods available. Talk to Dr. Pham about the possibility of a night guard. This will not only protect your veneers, but all of your teeth from damage. Bruxism is a serious condition that can wear down or break teeth if not properly addressed.
For the most part, all that is needed to take care of your veneers is good oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing at home and an exam and cleaning in the office every six months should keep your beautiful smile in top condition, and your veneers should keep it looking better than it ever has before.