You finally did it. You invested in porcelain veneers in Plano, and you love your new smile. Now the question is: how do you keep your new smile looking this good?
Porcelain veneers are durable, stain-resistant, and designed to last. But they’re not invincible. With the right care, your veneers can stay beautiful for 10 to 15 years or longer. With the wrong care, you could be looking at chips, stains, or premature replacement.
At Aesthetic Dentistry Centre in Plano, Dr. Mark Sowell and Dr. Sara Chen have placed hundreds of veneers. They know what it takes to keep them looking great. Here’s what you need to know.
First Things First: Your Daily Routine Matters
The same habits that keep your natural teeth healthy also protect your veneers. But there are a few extra considerations.
- Brush twice daily for at least 2 minutes: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste. Why? Abrasive toothpastes (marketed as “whitening” or “tartar control”) can scratch the glossy surface of your veneers. Over time, those tiny scratches can make your veneers look dull and prone to staining.
- Floss daily: Plaque and food particles can accumulate around the edges of your veneers. If left unchecked, this can lead to decay of the underlying natural tooth. Flossing removes what your brush can’t reach.
- Consider an electric toothbrush: pressure sensors can help you avoid brushing too hard, which can damage both your gums and the edges of your veneers. They also tend to be more effective at removing plaque.
- Use a non-abrasive toothpaste: Look for a toothpaste specifically formulated for use with veneers or one that carries the ADA seal and is marked “non-abrasive.” Your Plano dentist can recommend specific products.
What to Eat (and What to Avoid)
Your veneers are strong, but they’re not as tough as your natural teeth. Here’s what to keep in mind.
- Limit staining beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas can stain the edges of your veneers and the surrounding natural teeth. While veneers themselves are highly stain-resistant, the bonding material that holds them in place is not. Over time, stains can accumulate along the margins. If you do indulge, try drinking through a straw or rinsing with water afterward.
- Be careful with hard foods: Nuts, ice, hard candy, and bones can chip or crack your veneers. That doesn’t mean you can’t eat these foods, just be mindful. Use your back teeth for harder foods and avoid biting directly into things like apples or corn on the cob.
- Watch out for sticky foods: Caramel, taffy, and other sticky candies can pull at your veneers and potentially loosen them over time.
Habits That Can Damage Your Veneers
- Using your teeth as tools: Opening packages, tearing tape, or biting nails is a recipe for chipped veneers. Your teeth are not tools. Keep scissors and bottle openers handy.
- Teeth grinding: If you grind or clench your teeth at night (a condition called bruxism), your veneers are under constant pressure. Over time, this can cause them to chip, crack, or even come loose. A custom night guard from Dr. Sowell or Dr. Chen can protect your veneers while you sleep.
- Smoking: Tobacco stains veneers and contributes to gum disease, which can compromise the health of the teeth supporting your veneers.
Protect Your Veneers During Physical Activities
If you play contact sports or engage in high-impact activities, a mouthguard is non-negotiable. A custom-fitted mouthguard from your Plano dentist offers the best protection. It fits comfortably, stays in place, and absorbs impact more effectively than over-the-counter options.
Regular Dental Checkups: Don’t Skip Them
Professional cleanings are essential for veneer maintenance. Your hygienist can remove plaque and tartar that you can’t reach at home, and your Plano dentist can check for any issues with your veneers.
During your checkup, Dr. Sowell or Dr. Chen will also examine the margins of your veneers to ensure there’s no decay forming underneath. Catching problems early means simple fixes instead of major repairs.
How Long Do Veneers Actually Last?
With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years or more. But they aren’t permanent. Eventually, they may need to be replaced because of normal wear and tear or changes in the underlying tooth structure.
If you notice chips, cracks, discoloration, or looseness, schedule an appointment right away. Early intervention can prevent more extensive repairs later.
A Word from Our Patients
“After years of dealing with incompetent dentists incorrectly placing my veneers, I find myself extremely lucky to have stumbled upon Aesthetic Dentistry Centre. My experience with both doctors has been nothing but amazing.” – Katie S.
“Dr. Chen is a world-class, first-rate dentist, superbly qualified and excellent at what she does. She is extremely thorough, and her expertise is evident in her meticulous work.” – Gina Paterno Villalobos
How Much Do Porcelain Veneers Cost in Plano?
Porcelain veneers typically range from $1,500 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on the number of veneers and the complexity of your case.
We offer flexible payment options, including CareCredit financing and our “cruise plan” payment option that lets you prepay over time. During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Sowell or Dr. Chen will provide a complete, itemized treatment plan with no surprises.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
Your veneers were an investment in your confidence and your smile. With the right care, they’ll continue to deliver returns for years to come.
Call your cosmetic dentistry in Plano, TX, Aesthetic Dentistry Centre in Plano, at (972) 382-6855 to schedule your next checkup. You can also request an appointment online anytime. New patients are always welcome!