Bend, Oregon is full of active people who love the outdoors and all of the adventures it has to offer. However, this active lifestyle can sometimes take a toll on your oral health, particularly if you have porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are thin, hard shells of porcelain that are bonded to the surface of the tooth. While they are extremely durable, they require maintenance and careful cleaning to ensure their longevity. In this article, you’ll learn about the maintenance and cleaning tips to care for your porcelain veneers. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a regular paddle boarder, or just enjoy exploring Bend’s endless trails, these tips will help keep your veneers looking and feeling great.
Why Do I Need to Maintain My Porcelain Veneers?
Even with their durable nature, porcelain veneers are still prone to wear and tear just like natural teeth. Harsh impacts, teeth-grinding, and acidic foods and drinks can all begin to affect the look and function of your veneers over time. Chipping, cracking, and discolouring are all common issues that can develop with prolonged and regular use. Regular maintenance and cleaning is necessary in order to keep your veneers looking and feeling great over time. A dentist that specializes in porcelain veneers, such as Dr. Kelley Mingus, can help keep your smile looking its best.
Tips for Maintaining Your Porcelain Veneers in Bend
1. Brush and Floss Twice Daily: Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for smile maintenance. Brushing and flossing at least twice a day is the best way to keep your porcelain veneers clean and free from plaque buildup. It is important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a low-abrasive toothpaste in order to prevent scratching or damaging the surface of your veneers.
2. Be Gentle with Your Brushing: Hard brushing can cause excessive wear and tear on your veneers. Always be gentle when brushing your teeth and avoid excessive pressure. Additionally, consider using an electric toothbrush as they cause less damage to the surface of your teeth and veneers.
3. Use an Appropriate Mouthwash: Mouthwashes with alcohol, peroxide, or bleach can damage the bonding material of your veneers. It is best to use a mouthwash that is fluoride-free and alcohol-free. Antimicrobial mouthwashes can also help to reduce the amount of bacteria present in the mouth, which can help to extend the life of your veneers.
4. Limit the Consumption of Acidic Foods and Drinks: Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus, coffee, and wine, can cause damage to the surface of your veneers over time. Try to limit the consumption of these items and rinse your mouth with water afterward in order to minimize their effects.
5. Avoid Teeth Grinding: Teeth grinding can cause extreme wear and tear on the surface of your veneers. If you experience teeth grinding, it is important to have it addressed as soon as possible in order to prevent damage to your veneers. A night guard is often used to help protect teeth from grinding and clenching while you sleep.
Conclusion
If you have porcelain veneers and live an active life in Bend, Oregon, then taking care of your veneers is essential for extending their longevity. Good oral hygiene, gentle brushing, appropriate mouthwash, and avoiding teeth grinding and acidic foods and drinks are all important steps you can take to keep your veneers looking great. Dr. Kelley Mingus can help create a customized maintenance plan to ensure your veneers last for years to come.