Expert Tips to Maintain Your Veneers - Culver City Dentist
By: Dental veneers generally have a 90% survival rate and may last up to 10 years. So it’s important to remember that while veneers are built to last, routine maintenance is what keeps them looking strong and natural.
Unfortunately, it’s easy for us to forget that, like a garden in full bloom—radiant and well-tended, our teeth won’t thrive in a vacuum. And our veneers are only as healthy as the structures that are holding them. The overall health of the teeth and gums beneath the veneers is crucial. If the supporting structures are neglected, the veneers can be compromised.
That said, here are a few tips from your Culver city dentist to help you keep those dental veneers in optimum shape.
But before we dive into these tips, let’s first discuss what could shorten your veneer’s lifespan and cause its discoloration
Factors Influencing Veneer Failure
The most common cause of veneer failure is fracture, with debonding and discoloration also contributing to reduced durability. That’s why the thickness of the preserved enamel layer or remaining tooth structure is crucial to the longevity and success of veneers.
According to a 2024 Literature Review on the survival rate and laboratory failure of dental veneers, factors that influence veneer failure involve:
- Teeth that have undergone endodontic treatment
- Patients with habitual parafunctional behaviors such as grinding (ice cubes), nail biting, pencil chewing, or bruxism.
- Incorrect choice of material, for example, using materials with low flexural strength (such as feldspathic porcelain) in cases requiring high durability, such as lingually inclined teeth, diastema closures, or correction of malformed front teeth.
- Improper cementation procedure
- Stiffness of supporting tooth structure
- Veneer thickness
- Debonding failure due to tooth contamination
How to Take Care of Your Veneers According to Experts
A closer look at the common factors influencing veneer failure will allow you to avoid and address potential issues before they become serious. Factors like fractures, bonding failures, and discoloration are often preventable with the right care and attention.
Now, let’s discuss how exactly you could maintain your veneers with the help of some expert tips!
Protect Against Fracture with Night Guards
If you have a habit of grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw (bruxism), invest in a custom or over-the-counter night guard to shield your veneers from cracking. Also, avoid chewing hard objects like ice, pencils, or fingernails, as these habits put stress on veneers, increasing the risk of fracture.
Communicate Clearly with Your Dentist
While you may not choose the adhesive or material directly, discussing your dental history, lifestyle, and concerns with your dentist is crucial. Inform them if you grind your teeth, have had a root canal, or need complex corrections. Our cosmetic dentist in United Dental Care, for example, will consider these factors when selecting the right materials and bonding techniques to ensure the best outcome for your veneers.
Maintain Optimal Oral Hygiene
We’ve emphasized in this blog post how important it is also to maintain the supporting structure of your veneers. What better way to keep your veneers and underlying teeth healthy than to brush twice daily with non-abrasive toothpaste, floss regularly, and use an alcohol-free mouthwash. This helps prevent decay and gum issues that could compromise the veneers’ durability.
Address Endodontically Treated Teeth with Extra Care
If you have veneers on teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, be extra cautious. Follow your dentist’s advice regarding additional protective measures, like using stronger materials or scheduling more frequent checkups to monitor their condition.
Control Environmental Factors Post-Placement
After getting veneers, avoid eating or drinking for the first few hours as directed by your dentist to ensure the bond sets properly. Additionally, follow any instructions regarding diet and care in the initial days after placement to avoid premature failure.
Mind the Thickness and Care for Veneers
Though veneer thickness is determined by your dentist, you can help maintain their strength by avoiding extreme forces on your teeth. Again, using your teeth as tools to open packaging or bite into overly hard foods put your veneers at greater risk of breaking or chipping.
Routine Dental Checkups for Long-Term Success
Regular dental visits with dental experts in Culver City are essential for early detection of issues like minor fractures or discoloration. Routine cleanings and professional inspections help maintain the health of your veneers and the supporting teeth.
Book a Regular Visit with a Culver City Dentist
By following these actionable tips, you can play an active role in maintaining your veneers’ durability and appearance while ensuring they remain a long-term investment in your oral health. If you have further questions or concerns regarding the veneer care and maintenance, visit us at United Dental Care in Culver city. Or book a free consultation for a hassle-free dental appointment. Take action now for a healthier and brighter smile!
