One thing that our dentist in Whiting takes pride in is making sure out patient’s smiles are first function and then aesthetically pleasing. If a smile is just beautiful, but isn’t able to serve its purpose or causes the patient pain, we’re not doing our job correctly. If you’ve met with Dr. Daniel Berquist or Dr. Robert Berquist to get porcelain veneers, our office has made sure that your natural teeth and gums are healthy enough to support them for years to come. Now that you have an improved smile, it’s time to maintain it. Here are a few ways that Berquist Dentistry recommends taking care of your porcelain veneers.
1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
If you want your new smile to last long, you must keep your teeth and gums healthy. Good oral hygiene directly correlates to healthy teeth, which are necessary for your veneers to stay in good condition. Brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, along with professional cleanings will keep your natural teeth healthy and your porcelain veneers attractive.
2. Don’t Bite Hard Objects or Food
Even with your natural teeth, you should avoid biting objects that put your teeth at risk for cracking, fracturing, or chipping. Opening packages and other things is not a good idea if you have porcelain veneers either. Veneers will eventually tear, chip, or break if you don’t stop this habit. Veneers were created to withstand normal biting pressure, but they’re ability to last years can be cut short if they are exposed unnecessary wear and tear.
3. Avoid Teeth Grinding and Clenching
If you know that grinding and clenching your teeth is a bad habit of yours, you should speak to your dentist in 46394 about a custom mouthguard. This should really be anytime you experience bruxism (teeth grinding), not just if you have porcelain veneers. This habit can wear down and even damage your porcelain veneers.
4. Avoid Foods and Beverages That Can Stain
One of the best aspects of your veneers is that they are stain resistant! But, it’s better to not challenge your new smile. If you drink dark substances like colas or wine, stains will eventually set in over time. It is okay to enjoy these kinds of foods and drinks occasionally, but keep your smile in mind. Rinse your mouth afterwards so that some of the staining particles can be washed away.
5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Visiting your dentist every 6 months is very important to the maintenance of your veneers. We can monitor your veneers, teeth and gums, and check for potential problems. During each dental appointment, we will perform professional cleanings—preventive care avoids huge dental problems down the road for both your natural teeth and veneers. Dental visits every six months should be enough for you dentist to properly care for your teeth and gums.
Schedule an Appointment at Berquist Dental
Remember, we’re here to keep your smile both functional and beautiful. When it comes to porcelain veneers, we will make sure your mouth is in good health to obtain them in the first place, but it’s up to you to maintain your oral health along with us. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and see if porcelain veneers are right for you!