Dental veneers are an increasingly popular cosmetic dental treatment, with millions opting for this smile-enhancing solution. In fact, around 1.8 million veneers are placed each year in the United States alone. 

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. With proper care, they can last for many years. Porcelain veneers, in particular, have impressive longevity, with studies showing a survival rate of 91% over a 20-year period. 

Taking good care of your dental veneers is essential to maintaining their appearance and durability. Fortunately, caring for veneers is relatively easy and can be seamlessly incorporated into your daily oral hygiene routine. By following a few simple tips, you can ensure that your veneers remain in excellent condition for as long as possible, allowing you to enjoy a confident, beautiful smile for years to come. 

Read on to learn the most effective ways to care for your dental veneers and where to find the best dentist for veneers in Mountain View.

How to Keep Your Veneers Looking Like New 

Like natural teeth, veneers require proper care and attention to keep them looking their best. Although veneers are durable and virtually stain-resistant, neglecting your veneers can lead to slight discoloration, chipping, or damage that may require costly veneer repairs or replacements. 

1. Brush and Floss Regularly 

Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is paramount when caring for your dental veneers. Just like natural teeth, veneers require regular brushing and flossing to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup that can lead to tooth decay of the underlying tooth and gum disease. Gum disease, also called periodontitis, is a condition that can compromise your veneers' stability by affecting the health of the underlying teeth, gums, and jaw bones. 

Using a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste is also important when you have veneers. Fluoride is essential for strengthening the teeth and preventing tooth decay, which is important for the teeth your veneer is attached to. Whitening toothpaste, on the other hand, should be avoided as it often contains harsh abrasives that can wear down the polish on your veneers over time. 

Daily flossing is also important to remove debris between the teeth — this ensures that your gums stay healthy and your veneers remain secure and radiant.

2. See Your Dentist Regularly 

Regular checkups and cleanings are essential for keeping veneers looking their best and for oral health. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends checkups and professional teeth cleaning every six months, but some people may need visits more frequently. Since teeth whitening cannot be done on veneers, professional dental cleanings are important to keep the veneer surfaces from discoloring. 

3. Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks 

Minimize consuming foods and beverages that can stain veneers, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and soy sauce. If consumed, rinse your mouth or brush your teeth afterward. Using a straw can also minimize contact with veneers, reducing the risk of discoloration.

Similarly, using your teeth as tools for opening packages or removing bottle caps can apply undue stress on your veneers and lead to costly repairs or replacements. To preserve the longevity and appearance of your veneers, it's best to treat them with the same care you would afford any delicate investment.

4. Address Teeth Grinding or Jaw Clenching 

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism or jaw clenching, are unconscious habits that can wear down the integrity of your veneers. These actions often occur during sleep or particularly stressful times and can exert significant pressure on your veneers, leading to potential cracks, chips, or even dislodgement. 

To protect your veneers, you should speak with your dentist about using a custom-fitted nightguard. This can provide a protective barrier against the force of grinding and clenching while sleeping, minimizing the risk of damage to your veneers.

Your dental veneers are an investment in your smile, and taking good care of them is important for maintaining their appearance and longevity. By following these few simple habits, you can ensure that your veneers remain pristine and enjoy your beautiful, confident smile for many years.

Where to Get the Best Veneers in Mountain View, CA 

Whether you’re still considering getting veneers or already have them, choosing a dentist knowledgeable about them is important for keeping them as bright and perfect as the day you got them. 

Regular checkups and veneer maintenance from a dentist highly skilled in modern dentistry can help — Dr. Behdad and her team of specialists at Dental Square are committed to exactly that. 

At Dental Square, you can expect compassionate dental care in a welcoming environment to help you keep your veneers in top-notch condition and get personalized instruction on how to take care of your veneers. Additionally, you can get fitted with mouth guards to protect your veneers from undue stress and get full-service veneer repair if you ever need it. 

Ready to keep your veneers as beautiful as day one with the best veneer specialists in Mountain View?