Dental veneers can add sheen and sparkle to teeth that may have become stained or dull over time. For this reason, they’re one of the most popular options for patients who are looking to have restorative work done on their teeth. Below, we cover 10 tips to prevent dental veneers from breaking.
However, porcelain veneers have the unfortunate potential to break and become damaged if too much stress is applied to them. If this occurs, you’ll likely have to return to the dentist for further work.
10 Tips to Prevent Dental Veneers from Breaking
If you have a set of dental veneers, or are just considering receiving this type of work, take a look at this guide to avoid having your veneers break before their time.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are a type of dental fixture. Typically composed of porcelain, these veneers fit over the top of one’s natural teeth and enhance its appearance. Dental veneers are able to offer one’s teeth the following benefits:
- Enhancing tooth color
- Hide teeth imperfections
- Boost confidence
- Protect the teeth from chipping and cracking
- Hide stained teeth
- Generally strengthen the teeth
Many patients can benefit overall from the aesthetic affects imparted by quality veneers. Here are some of the main benefits many patients report.
1. Maintain Good Dental Health
One of the best ways to keep your dental veneers in good health is through keeping the rest of your mouth in good health. Staying regular with all of the typical dental health practices that maintain good dental health can in turn ensure that your veneers stay in top shape for longer.
2. Avoid Chewing Hard Objects
When they are properly taken care of, dental veneers have the potential to last for up to 15 years. One of the ways that you can maintain this level of longevity is by avoiding chewing on hard objects like plastic, ice, or your fingernails. Many people perform this activity subconsciously, to the detriment of their teeth.
3. Use the Right Kind of Toothbrush
Dentists usually have dental health products that they recommend to patients, including types of toothbrushes and toothpaste. Sticking to your dentist’s recommendations will likely extend the lifespan of your veneers and keep your dental health in a solid state.
4. Don’t Use Your Teeth to Open Things
Many individuals carry the bad habit of using their teeth as a tool to open plastic bags and containers, among other things. Avoiding this bad habit will save you grief in the long run, and keep your teeth in a state of good health.
5. Try Not to Grind or Clench Your Teeth
Grinding your teeth and clenching one’s jaw is another subconscious habit that can have very negative effects on one’s dental health in the long run. Staying aware of these habits and avoiding them will benefit your teeth in the long run.
6. Chew Mindfully
Biting down suddenly on tough substances like steak and other foods can damage your teeth in the long run. Avoiding these habits has the potential to add longevity to your dental veneers in the long run.
7. Stay Regular with Your Dental Cleanings
Scheduling dental cleanings with a professional dentist every six months or so is key to maintaining long-term dental health. Your veneers will inevitably benefit from these cleanings as well, as they have the potential to eliminate some of the deeper layers of bacteria and plaque that can afflict the teeth.
8. Wear a Mouthguard if you Play Sports
If you’re someone who plays high-impact sports, consider wearing a protective mouthguard when you engage in these activities. They can help prevent the kinds of impact damage that are common in these pursuits, which can result in the dislodgement and damage of natural teeth and dental veneers.
9. Floss Regularly
Another dental health practice that you can engage in that will help keep your dental veneers clean is flossing regularly. Flossing is considered an essential part of maintaining optimal dental health, and can prevent all types of damage to one’s teeth down the line.
10. Avoid Sugary Foods
At this point, sugar needs no introduction as one of the main culprits behind bad dental health and tooth decay. In the same way that sugar has the potential to damage your natural teeth, it can also cause long-term damage to your dental veneers.
The Top Dentist in Bloomington
Valley Alder Family Dentistry is widely regarded as the best dentist in Bloomington. If you’re interested in having a discussion with a dental professional regarding your options with dental veneer installation, contact us in order to set up an appointment.
