A radiant smile with porcelain veneers is a significant investment in your appearance and self-esteem. Designed by experts like Dr. Aristo Carranza in Westfield, NJ, veneers are made to be resilient and enduring. However, their longevity relies on proper care. To safeguard your smile, it’s essential to avoid these seven common mistakes.
1. Choosing the Wrong Toothpaste
Many whitening toothpastes have abrasive particles that can scratch the polished surface of your veneers. Over time, these microscopic scratches can make your veneers appear dull and more prone to discoloration.
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How to Avoid It: Stick with a non-abrasive gel toothpaste. Choose formulas safe for cosmetic dental work.
2. Using Too Much Force When Brushing
Brushing with excessive pressure or using a hard-bristled toothbrush won’t make your veneers cleaner. Instead, it can damage your gums, causing them to recede and exposing the top edge of the veneer.
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How to Avoid It: Select a soft-bristled toothbrush and light, circular strokes to clean your teeth and gumline properly.
3. Neglecting to Floss
Veneers only cover the front surface of your teeth. The underlying tooth structure and the areas in between are still vulnerable to cavities and gum disease. Neglecting to floss can lead to major oral health problems that compromise the health of your veneers.
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How to Avoid It: Floss every day, making sure to carefully clean around each tooth and at the gumline.
4. Consuming Staining Foods and Drinks in Excess
While porcelain is very resistant to stains, the adhesive resin used to attach the veneers can be susceptible to discoloration over time. Regular intake of dark liquids like coffee, red wine, tea, and soda can discolor the margins of your veneers.
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How to Avoid It: Enjoy these beverages sensibly and swish with water immediately after.
5. Using Your Teeth as Implements
Your teeth are designed for chewing food, not for opening packages, cutting tape, or chewing on pens. Using your veneers as a tool can easily cause them to chip, crack, or even detach completely, requiring a significant expense for repair or replacement.
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How to Avoid It: Always use the correct tool for the job, like a pair of scissors or an opener.
6. Missing Dental Check-ups
Professional cleanings and exams are essential. Your dentist can spot potential issues with your veneers or natural teeth well before you notice them. They also use specific polishing pastes that are safe for veneers and keep them looking their best.
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How to Avoid It: Book an appointment and cleaning with Dr. Aristo Carranza every six months.
7. Grinding Your Teeth (Night Grinding)
Clenching or grinding your teeth, particularly while sleeping, puts immense pressure on your veneers. This habit can result in fractures, chips, and significant harm.
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How to Avoid It: If you think you grind your teeth, consult with your dentist. A custom-made oral appliance is the most effective method to protect your veneers while you sleep.
Protect your gorgeous smile by adopting these simple habits into your daily routine. For personalized advice or to schedule a check-up, contact Dr. Aristo Carranza today.
Ready to ensure your veneers last a lifetime? Call us at (908) 444-3200 or stop by our clinic at 301 Lenox Avenue, Westfield, NJ 07090.
