Porcelain veneers are a long-lasting cosmetic dentistry option that can correct a variety of smile imperfections. During the dental veneers procedure, thin, porcelain shells are placed over your existing teeth to conceal flaws such as stains, chips, and cracks.
Dr. Keith Warr is an experienced and highly-trained cosmetic dentist who has helped many patients enjoy impeccable smiles with porcelain veneers. In addition to traditional porcelain veneers, he also offers Lumineers® for patients who seek improvement with extremely-thin shells.
Sometimes referred to as instant orthodontics, dental veneers are a versatile solution to a number of dental problems. While veneers are durable and long-lasting, there are some precautions you should take to ensure their continued beauty and longevity.
The following list details five things you should avoid if you have porcelain veneers.
1 – Using Tobacco
Dental porcelain is very resistant to stains, but cigarette smoke can stain the composite used to attach the veneers. Continued tobacco use, whether smoking or chewing, can create a yellow or brown tinge at the edges of your teeth.
2 - Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth
Teeth grinding (bruxism) can wear down and fracture natural teeth, so it’s probably not a stretch to realize it can damage porcelain veneers as well. Not only are fractured veneers more common among patients with bruxism, but there is a higher incidence of veneers loosening or falling off for patients who grind their teeth.
3 - Biting Hard Objects
Extreme force can cause dental veneers to crack or separate from the teeth. Using your teeth as tools to tear open packages or open bottled drinks will ultimately harm your veneers. Nervous habits like chewing pencils and biting fingernails can also lead to damage.
4 - Eating Hard or Sticky Foods
Hard and sticky foods can be harmful to porcelain veneers. Foods to avoid include:
- Pretzels
- Nuts
- Hard candy, like jaw breakers
- Sticky candy, like caramel
- Ice
5 - Drinking Highly-Pigmented Liquids
While dark colored drinks won’t stain your porcelain veneers, over time, they will darken the margin where the edge of the veneer meets the tooth. Examples of these highly-pigmented drinks include:
- Red wine
- Coffee
- Soda
- Dark Tea
Additionally, be cautious of consuming too much alcohol, regardless of its color. Alcohol can weaken the bonding agent that secures the veneers in place over your teeth.
Schedule Your Free Porcelain Veneers Consultation Today
Porcelain veneers can help you get the straight, brilliant smile you’ve always dreamed of. To learn how Warr Dental can help you achieve your perfect smile, call us today at 801-355-5385 to schedule your free dental veneers consultation. You can also arrange a virtual consultation online. We welcome patients from throughout the Salt Lake City area.
