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Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments on the market today. Looking at porcelain veneers before and after images makes it clear why they are so sought-after: the results that can be achieved with them are nothing short of stunning.

However, porcelain veneers also require some special care. To make them last as long as possible, you will need to be diligent about doing some things and avoiding others. Here are a few dos and don’ts to help you extend the lifespan of your porcelain veneers.

Dos to Protect Your Porcelain Veneers

1. Do Brush and Floss Every Day

Veneers need healthy teeth and gums to support them, so it is a good idea to take extra care with your oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss them at least once a day to keep your mouth healthy and your veneers intact.

2. Do Visit the Dentist for Exams and Cleanings Every 6 Months

Getting regular oral health checkups allows your dentist to catch any developing cavities or other problems before they can loosen your veneers. Dental cleanings also help prevent gum irritation around the seams of your veneers, where bacteria can easily hide. If you need any dental fillings, opt for composite fillings to keep your smile uniformly white.

3. Do Wear Your Night Guard or Mouth Guard

Teeth grinding can quickly wear down even the most carefully crafted porcelain veneers. If you are known to grind your teeth, wearing your night guard to bed will protect your veneers from the force exerted by your jaw. You should also wear a mouthguard anytime you play contact sports.

4. Do Visit a Qualified and Experienced Cosmetic Dentist For Your Procedure

Veneers last longer when they are placed by a true expert. Take the time to research your dentist’s qualifications. Choose a dentist in Mississauga with significant experience in placing veneers and many happy clients to vouch for them.

5. Do Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating healthy foods will help prevent tooth decay, which in turn will help your veneers last longer. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables every day and avoid sugary snacks and drinks. If you eat any hard foods like carrots or apples, cut them up with a knife to avoid putting too much strain on your veneers.

Don’ts to Protect Your Porcelain Veneers

1. Don’t Chew on Ice

Chewing on ice, pencil tips, jewelry, or other hard objects risks cracking or chipping your veneers. Keep non-food objects out of your mouth to avoid unfortunate accidents.

2. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

Similarly, using your teeth to open bottles or plastic packaging can easily damage your veneers. Use appropriate hand-held tools instead, such as a bottle opener or a pair of scissors.

3. Don’t Smoke

Smoking promotes gum disease and may stain your veneers. Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco to keep your gums healthy and your veneers sparkling white.

4. Don’t Use an Abrasive Toothbrush or Toothpaste

Abrasive brushes and toothpaste may scratch your veneers and cause staining particles to build up more quickly in the damaged areas. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent this from happening. If you are not sure if your toothpaste is too abrasive, ask your dentist for guidance.

5. Avoid Teeth-Staining Foods & Drinks

Dark-coloured food and drink like coffee, tea, wine, and even curry and tomato sauce can stain porcelain veneers. Avoid these foods to keep your veneers looking beautifully white. Remember – porcelain veneers and composite tooth fillings cannot be whitened like natural teeth can.

Visit Mississauga’s Best Dentist for Porcelain Veneers

Are you ready to get your own porcelain veneers? Our staff at Trillium Smile Dentistry can help. Contact us today to book an appointment or inquire about porcelain veneer costs, care and maintenance, or anything else you would like to know about the procedure. We will happily guide you through the process every step of the way.