Caring for Your Porcelain Veneers

    WASHINGTON, DC, July 15, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- After taking the plunge and having porcelain veneers applied, you might be thrilled with your new smile but worried about how to make it stay beautiful for years to come. With proper care, porcelain veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years before needing replacement. Much of your care will fall in line with common oral hygiene and maintenance; dutiful brushing and flossing habits will go a long way to keeping your veneers, and the teeth behind them, healthy and functional.

However, there are a few other things to keep in mind when caring for your porcelain veneers.

Making Your Porcelain Veneers Last

To prevent your porcelain veneers from chipping or wearing down, you should avoid the following habits:

- Chewing on ice
- Biting your fingernails
- Grinding your teeth

If you have bruxism, a condition where you grind your teeth in your sleep, you may want to speak with your dentist about obtaining an effective mouthguard. Just as bruxism can wear down your natural teeth, it can damage your veneers as well.

It's also a good idea to avoid certain substances that can cause discoloration of your porcelain veneers, such as:

- Red wine
- Coffee
- Tea
- Tobacco
- Certain medications

While veneers are highly stain-resistant, consuming large quantities of the above substances can still affect their color.

Keep in Touch With Your Cosmetic Dentist

Regular check-ups should be scheduled with your cosmetic dentist for proper maintenance of your porcelain veneers. Your dentist will be able to polish your veneers and check the teeth behind them for any dental problems. If you have any questions about your veneers and how to care for them, speak with your cosmetic dentist. He or she can advise you on proper care specific to your situation. For example, if you play contact sports, you will need to employ additional caution to prevent cracking or breaking your veneers.

As always, the best way to maintain the health and beauty of your new smile is to actively participate in your own dental care. By practicing good oral hygiene, following the above tips, making regular appointments with your cosmetic dentist, and using some good common sense, your porcelain veneers can last for years to come - and you can avoid further expensive dental work.

If you live in the Washington D.C. or Northern Virginia areas and are interested in transforming your smile with porcelain veneers, please visit the website of experienced Reston cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Chung at Softouch Dental Care at www.softouchdentalcare.com.

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