4 ways to keep your veneers in great shape years after they are placed

As true dental artists, Drs Chuong Phan and Anna Abel are adept at designing, placing, and securing porcelain veneers. Due to the unique nature of this popular cosmetic dentistry service, veneers allow for their artistry and technical skill to shine. After all, the results from veneers depend on the talents and skills of the professionals who prepare, color-match, fabricate, and secure them to the teeth. Our team at Abel, Phan & Associates also works closely with patients from across the Sterling, Virginia, area to ensure they get the most out of this process. They advise on ways to keep your veneers in top shape and looking vibrant, four of which are listed below. 

1 – Put the brakes on teeth grinding. 

If Drs Phan or Abel notice telltale signs of chronic teeth grinding (bruxism), such as chips or excessive wear and tear to restorations, they may recommend a special oral appliance. This appliance, known as a nightguard or oral splint, is customized to fit your mouth. When worn before going to bed at night, it protects the teeth and any dental work from damage due to bruxism that often occurs involuntarily during sleep. We will evaluate this condition and discuss ways to address it well before your veneers are placed. 

2 – Don’t use your teeth as tools.

While dental porcelain is very strong and durable, it is not impervious to damage. This damage may be caused by contact with hard objects or behaviors that the material is not designed to withstand or support. It is important to be aware of any habits that could place excessive pressure on the teeth and, beyond bruxism, this includes refraining from: 

• Opening packages with your teeth 
• Biting your fingernails 
• Chomping on pens, pencils, and other writing instruments
• Chewing ice (as satisfying as this may be!)

Relaxation techniques can help, as many of the behaviors mentioned above are associated with anxiety and stress. While comforting at the moment, they can have a serious and outsized impact on the health of your dental work and natural tissues.

3 – Minimize staining foods and substances. 

Dental porcelain is celebrated for its ability to resist stains. However, excessive use of foods and beverages with intense pigment can gradually affect the original brightness and vibrancy of your veneers. If you must, for instance, sip on coffee or other staining drinks, be mindful of brushing afterward or chasing the drink with water regularly. 

4 – Maintain good oral care at home and in our office. 

Generally, choose non-abrasive toothpaste and oral care products. These products can dull the appearance of your veneers over time. Be consistent and diligent about brushing and flossing your teeth, and incorporate special floss and interdental brushes to clean effectively. 

All of this exceptional care at home is not a substitute for professional care at the office of Abel, Phan & Associates. For example, our team has access to special technologies and training to remove even the most stubborn substances that can damage your veneers and the teeth underneath them. 

To learn more about veneers at every step, schedule a consultation today. Our team in Sterling, VA, can be reached at (571) 450-9848.

Share this Article