Do You Have To Brush Veneers?

Are you considering getting veneers? Just had them placed? You might be wondering about the best practices for maintaining them. While veneers are designed to be stain-resistant and durable, they still require proper care to keep them looking their best. This includes regular brushing, but the process might be slightly different than what you're used to.

Understanding Veneers

Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-made to fit over your teeth. They're used to correct a variety of dental issues, including discolored, chipped, or misshapen teeth. While they're designed to mimic the appearance of your natural teeth, they're not quite the same, and thus, require a slightly different approach to care.

One of the main differences is that veneers are non-porous, which means they're more resistant to staining than your natural teeth. However, this doesn't mean they're completely stain-proof or that they don't require regular cleaning. In fact, the longevity of your veneers largely depends on how well you care for them.

Brushing Veneers

Just like your natural teeth, veneers need to be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. This means brushing at least twice a day. However, when brushing veneers, it's important to use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching the surface.

It's also recommended to brush your teeth gently to avoid damaging the veneer. While veneers are durable, they can still be damaged by rough brushing. Therefore, it's important to use gentle, circular motions when brushing.

Flossing and Rinsing

In addition to brushing, it's also important to floss your teeth daily. Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles that can get trapped between your teeth and under your gums, which can lead to gum disease and other dental problems. When flossing, be careful not to pull too hard on the floss as this can dislodge the veneer.

Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash can also help to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. However, avoid using mouthwashes that contain alcohol as it can damage the bonding material that holds your veneers in place.

Professional Dental Cleanings

Even with proper at-home care, it's still important to visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. During these visits, your dentist can check the condition of your veneers and make any necessary adjustments. They can also remove any hardened plaque (tartar) that can't be removed with regular brushing and flossing.

Typically, you should visit your dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits depending on your specific needs.

Protecting Your Veneers

Aside from regular cleaning, there are also other steps you can take to protect your veneers. This includes avoiding hard or crunchy foods that can chip or crack your veneers, and not using your teeth as tools to open packages or bite your nails. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your veneers from damage.

It's also important to avoid smoking and limit your consumption of staining foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, to keep your veneers looking their best.

Revive Your Smile in Edmond, OK

At Revive Dental in Edmond, we're committed to helping our patients achieve and maintain beautiful smiles. If you have veneers or are considering getting them, we're here to provide you with the information and care you need. Don't hesitate to reach out to us at (405) 492-7862 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Durham today.