Congratulations on your new veneers! Veneers are an excellent way to enhance your smile, providing both aesthetic beauty and a confidence boost. However, proper care is essential to ensure their longevity and maintain that beautiful, natural look. At West Hill Family Dental, Dr. Robert Hemphill and his team are dedicated to helping patients take care of their new veneers so they can enjoy their stunning smiles for years to come.

Here’s what you need to know about caring for your veneers.

1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

Even though veneers are stain-resistant and durable, they still require consistent care. Veneers cover your natural teeth, which means you need to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent gum disease and decay under or around the veneers. Here’s how to keep your teeth and veneers in tip-top shape:

  • Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching your veneers.
  • Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque that can accumulate around the edges of your veneers.
  • Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to keep your gums healthy and prevent irritation.

Proper oral care will help ensure that both your veneers and natural teeth stay healthy.

2. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

Veneers are designed to be durable, but they can still crack or chip if exposed to excessive force. To keep your veneers intact, avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that may compromise their integrity. Some examples include:

  • Hard candies
  • Ice cubes
  • Popcorn kernels
  • Chewing gum or sticky candies

If you’re unsure about a certain food, it’s best to cut it into smaller pieces or chew carefully to prevent any damage to your veneers.

3. Minimize Stain-Causing Foods and Drinks

While veneers are highly resistant to stains, the edges of your veneers and the natural teeth around them can still be susceptible to discoloration. To maintain a bright and consistent smile, consider limiting your intake of the following:

  • Coffee and tea
  • Red wine
  • Dark-colored sauces
  • Soda

Using a straw when drinking these beverages can also help reduce contact with your teeth, minimizing potential stains.

4. Wear a Night Guard if You Grind Your Teeth

If you have a habit of grinding your teeth (bruxism), it’s important to protect your veneers with a custom night guard. Teeth grinding can wear down or damage your veneers over time. A night guard, custom-fitted by Dr. Robert Hemphill, can provide a barrier between your teeth while you sleep, protecting your veneers from excessive force.

5. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Routine dental visits are critical to maintaining both your veneers and your overall oral health. During your checkup, Dr. Hemphill will:

  • Examine your veneers for any signs of wear or damage.
  • Provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar.
  • Offer personalized advice on how to continue caring for your veneers.

By keeping up with regular dental appointments, you can catch any potential issues early and ensure your veneers last as long as possible.

6. Avoid Bad Habits

Certain habits can put your veneers at risk of damage, just as they can harm your natural teeth.

Here are a few habits to avoid:

  • Don’t use your teeth as tools: Avoid opening packages, tearing plastic, or biting on pens with your teeth.
  • Quit smoking: Smoking can discolor the natural teeth around your veneers and negatively impact your gum health.

By breaking these habits, you can help extend the life of your veneers and maintain a healthy smile.

Long-Term Care for Your Veneers

With proper care, veneers can last between 10 to 15 years or more. Following these care tips and maintaining regular dental checkups with Dr. Robert Hemphill at West Hill Family Dental will help ensure that your veneers remain in excellent condition for years to come.

Ready to Enjoy Your Beautiful New Smile?

Taking care of your veneers is simple with the right routine and guidance from your dental team. If you have any questions about your veneers or need further advice, contact West Hill Family Dental today. Dr. Robert Hemphill and his experienced team are here to help you maintain a radiant, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.