How to Make Dental Veneers Last Longer

Veneers are an effective, safe cosmetic-dentistry solution used by dentists to improve the smiles of their patients. According to MedicineNet.com's report on veneers, once the porcelain is bonded to the teeth, veneers typically last from 5 to 10 years before they need to be replaced. People can maximize and even prolong the lifespan of their veneers by diligently caring for their teeth and observing some simple precautions.

Things You'll Need

• Night guard
• Soft toothbrush

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Instructions

• 1

  Avoid hard foods. While porcelain veneers are very durable, they are still subject to rupturing (just like natural teeth) under excessive stress and strain on the teeth.

• 2

  Be cautious with foods that require the teeth to work hard, such as chewy breads. Such foods should be torn apart or cut with a fork and knife into small bites, rather than bitten into.

• 3

  Break chewing and biting habits. Many people have habits such as mindlessly chewing on objects, such as pencils and pens, or ripping open bags or removing plastic caps with their teeth. These behaviors put unnecessary strain on the teeth and the attached veneers, and can cause the veneers to crack.

• 4

  Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth or clench your jaw in your sleep. Doing these things not only wears down tooth enamel but also threatens the strength of the veneers. Wearing a night guard will help your veneers and your natural teeth.

• 5

  Use a soft toothbrush. Porcelain veneers are known for their polished, natural look and luster. Brushing the teeth with the stiff bristles of a hard toothbrush will gradually diminish this lustrous look. A soft-bristled toothbrush is just as effective for cleaning the teeth and is better for your veneers and the enamel of your natural teeth.

• 6

  Brush the backsides of your teeth. Veneer application requires that the tooth enamel is shaved down, making the natural tooth more prone to infection and cavities. A cavity or any brown staining that forms behind the tooth will affect the appearance of the veneer in the form of a dark "shadow."