Graduations, vacations, weddings, and summer fun are just around the corner—and you’ve done the hard work of prepping a picture-perfect smile for the season. But just because your smile is radiant now doesn’t mean all is said and done. While veneers are durable and long-lasting, they require proper care.
Radiance Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is here with some tips and tricks to help keep your smile ready for every adventure that comes your way.
Veneers Are Low-Maintenance…Not No-Maintenance
Veneers are designed to be durable and beautiful, but they still need care to stay looking their best. The good news is that caring for veneers is usually simple because they require the same cleaning as your natural teeth:
- Brush Gently: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your veneers keeps them ready for your next summer event.
- Choose the Right Toothpaste: Some toothpastes are too abrasive for veneers and can scratch the surface over time, dulling your smile.
- Floss Daily: Removing plaque and food from between your teeth keeps gums healthy and veneers shiny. It also keeps the lettuce out of your teeth in photos.
- Attend Biannual Professional Cleanings: Our dental team will gently clean your veneers and check for signs of damage, loose bonding materials, or other issues.
Something that many patients forget is that veneers still rely on the healthy natural tooth structure underneath. So while you are taking care of your veneers, it’s important to remember to take care of your gums, teeth, and lips, too.
Veneers Can’t Get Cavities, but Your Teeth Still Can
The phrase “Out of sight, out of mind” has more to do with veneers than one might think. Stain-resistant, beautiful teeth are what everyone sees when you smile, but that new look is built atop your existing teeth and relies on healthy teeth and gums.
Without good dental hygiene, gum inflammation can cause visible gaps in your smile. Decay beneath your restorations may cause sensitivity or your veneers to feel “off.” Regular brushing and flossing (yes, you still have to floss) is essential for maintaining your veneers.
Iced Coffee, Wine, and BBQ Sauce: The Summer Stain Lineup
Backyard cookouts with the family. Iced tea on the outdoor patio. Ice cream to take the heat off. Fresh berries picked right off the bush. So many summer indulgences, so many ways to stain your teeth.
While E.max ceramic veneers are stain-resistant, that does not mean they are stain-proof. Common summer stain culprits include:
- Red wine
- iced coffee
- Lemonade
- dark berries
- Mustard
- Ketchup
- BBQ sauces
That said, you don’t have to give up your favorite foods and drinks. A few key tips will help you protect your smile:
- Rinse with water after eating or drinking staining foods or beverages
- Use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth
- Don’t sip for 4 hours straight—enjoy your drink, then give your teeth a break
Habits That Shorten Veneer Lifespan
Veneers are strong, but they’re not indestructible. A lot of the wear and tear that shortens the lifespan of veneers comes down to everyday habits that many people don’t think twice about.
Your teeth are tools for keeping your body fed, for making connections, and for expressing yourself. They are not tools for things like:
- Nail biting
- Chewing ice (we know it’s hot, but please don’t)
- Opening packages or tearing tags off items
- Holding things when your hands are full
Repeated strong or uneven pressure on your veneers can stress them to the point of cracking or chipping. If you grind your teeth at night, wear a night guard to protect your veneers from damage due to excess pressure.
Maintaining Your Sunny Smile
You have your healthy, beautiful smile and the tips to maintain it, so now is the time to enjoy it. Whether you’re at the pool or on the patio, at a wedding or a backyard get-together, these small daily habits and regular checkups at Radiance Family & Cosmetic Dentistry can keep your veneers strong and bright for years.
