• Posted on: Apr 30 2018

Cosmetic dentistry offers value to adults of all ages simply because we all deserve to feel good about our appearance. What better way to revive your appearance than by refreshing your smile? One of the most common ways that folks do this is by lifting stains with professional teeth whitening. As beneficial as teeth whitening is, it cannot solve problems that extend beyond discoloration. If you are troubled by a chip in a front tooth or an obvious gap, having a radiant smile isn’t necessarily going to make you notice that concern any less. This is why, after teeth whitening, we have seen a surge in interest regarding porcelain veneers.

About Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a type of indirect veneer. They are “jackets” that are made in a dental lab, carved from high-quality dental porcelain. This material is comparable to enamel regarding durability, and it surpasses enamel in its ability to resist stains. There are numerous flaws for which porcelain veneer treatment is ideal. Examples include cracks, short teeth, and a tooth that is turned.

Patients are often informed about the benefits of porcelain veneers, so we’d like to discuss another aspect of this advantageous treatment: how to maintain veneers for long-term gain.

Veneer Maintenance

The fact that porcelain veneers are a permanent treatment, which means lifetime management, can be off-putting to some people. The idea of having to replace a damaged veneer can be intimidating, but it shouldn’t be. Veneers can last as long as 15 years in good conditions. We want to discuss how you can set the stage for this to happen.

Porcelain is durable and will resist stains, but it is not exempt from normal wear and tear. Just like natural enamel can degrade over time, so can porcelain veneers. And this is just from normal usage. Degradation may occur more quickly if veneers are over-exposed to acidic ingredients or sugars. As you may know, sugar feeds bacteria in the mouth, which can result in cavities. The risk with veneers is that decay could develop at the margin where porcelain meets the tooth. Acidic ingredients in soda, coffee, and other common foods and beverages can also lead to decay or erosion around the margins of veneers.

Maintaining veneers doesn’t have to involve giving up your favorite foods. No, all you need to do is develop a really good oral care routine. For instance, follow that morning Cup O’ Joe with some water. Don’t sip, actually rinse your mouth with water, so acidity is diluted. Of course, you also need to brush and floss your teeth every day. With these simple habits, combined with twice yearly dental exams and cleanings, your veneers can last well beyond a decade.

Are you ready for cosmetic dentistry? Schedule a consultation in our Grand Rapids office at 616-458-0631.

Posted in: Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers