Investing in veneers means investing in your smile for the future. Porcelain veneers custom designed for you and fitted by the professionals at The Dental Boutique are highly durable, and could last 10-30 years with the proper care.

Just like your natural teeth, it’s important that you practise good oral habits to ensure your veneers last as long as possible. Veneers are resistant to staining – but they’re not immune. They’re also hard – but only as hard as your teeth. Taking necessary precautions and going for regular dental checkups will ensure you get the most out of your smile investment.

1. Brush regularly with a soft toothbrush

Cleaning your mouth properly keeps stains at bay and keeps your natural teeth healthy. Brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and make sure you’re not brushing too hard. Your dentist can advise on the most effective technique if you’re not sure. Remember to floss daily, too!

2. Avoid eating hard foods

Biting or chewing hard foods such as candy should be avoided; this could crack or fracture a veneer and mean you need to have a replacement.

3. Avoid staining foods

Wherever possible, stay away from highly pigmented food and drink, such as coffee, tea, wine and other types of alcohol. Too much exposure to this type of food can cause the bonding in particular to stain, and this will take away from your naturally stunning smile.

4. Give up smoking

Again, the composite bonding used to attach your veneers could be impacted by tobacco, leading to unsightly stains. Smoking can also damage your gums, bone and natural teeth, and an unhealthy mouth could require extra treatment. The veneers may fall out, or have to be removed so the underlying tooth structure can be restored.

5. Try to avoid grinding your teeth

It’s difficult to stop grinding your teeth, especially if it happens when you’re asleep (in a condition known as bruxism). However, grinding can shorten the life of your veneers, so we recommend addressing the issue with your dentist, who might be able to provide a night-time mouthguard or other effective solution.

6. Visit the dentist regularly

Keep your oral health in optimal condition and never skip a dentist appointment. When you visit the dentist for a check-up, they’ll be able to ensure your veneers are still in the right position, make sure the gum tissue is healthy, and spot any potential concerns. Addressing these early on could save you the need for long or expensive treatment further down the line.

7. Be gentle with your teeth

Your teeth are not a tool, so don’t treat them as such! Avoid using your veneers (or indeed your natural teeth) to open food packages, loosen knots or pop lids from beer bottles. Not only does this compromise the integrity of your veneers and can weaken or chip them, it also invites germs into your mouth.

Book a consultation with The Dental Boutique

Make an appointment with our private dentists in the Gold Coast to uncover your needs and start the journey to a smile that fills you with confidence. We’re available to tell you more about our range of cosmetic dental treatments, or to book your appointment with us. Just give us a call on (07) 5591 2262 or email [email protected].