What To Do After Dental Veneers Are Fixed?

Cracked, chipped, and discolored teeth can cause several problems, including pain, sensitivity, infection, and damage to the surrounding teeth. It is vital to get cosmetic dentistry in Anchorage, AK, to improve the appearance of the teeth.

What are Dental Veneers?

Veneers are custom-made shells that cover the enamel. They are used to improve the appearance of your smile and can be made from porcelain or composite resin. These shells are an option for people who have discolored, chipped, or misshapen teeth. They can also be used to close gaps between teeth. Veneers are usually not covered by insurance and can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 per tooth.

Who is Not Eligible for Dental Veneers?

People who wear braces cannot get dental veneers because they would be unable to remove the braces before having their veneers put on. In addition, people who have had extensive dental work done may not be eligible for dental veneers because they may have teeth that are too short or too small.

How Are Dental Veneers Fixed?

The process of getting dental veneers in Anchorage usually takes two visits to the dentist. 

The initial appointment involves assessment, and the dentist will slightly reshape the teeth. He will then take a mold of the teeth to create the veneers. 

Once the veneers are ready (it takes about three to four weeks), you will return to the dentist to have them applied. 

The dentist will bond the veneers with an adhesive and then polish to give them a natural-looking shine.

How Can You Take Care of Dental Veneers?

• Avoiding hard items

After dental veneer treatment, the first rule of oral health is to avoid chewing on hard objects. Although porcelain veneers are strong, teeth chewing on hard objects can wear them down. 

Avoid grinding and clenching, both of which can wear down your temporary veneers.

Also, do not use your teeth as a tool, as chewing on pencils and tape can damage your veneers.

• Avoiding contact sports

After undergoing dental veneer treatment, you should avoid a few things, including chewing on your fingernails and playing contact sports. Wear a mouth guard while playing to protect your teeth and veneers. Contact sports can also lead to severe injuries, and you may need to have your veneers repaired or replaced.

• Avoiding smoking

The fumes from tobacco products are harmful to your health and can severely stain your teeth. The nicotine increases your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Smoking is also a leading cause of periodontal disease, which can cause the loss of your teeth. Avoid smoking immediately following your veneer treatment to protect your newly restored smile.

• Cleaning your teeth

After receiving veneers, you need to follow the same rules for proper care of your new teeth as you would for your natural ones. Clean your teeth regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Cleaning your teeth after dental veneer treatment will help reduce the chances of gum disease and damage. It will also protect your new veneers. Your Anchorage dentist will provide instructions on proper brushing and flossing techniques.

• Avoiding stains

Preventing stains after dental veneer treatment is similar to maintaining tooth enamel. Avoid foods and drinks with high pigment content like coffee and wine. If you consume them, rinse your mouth immediately.  

• Flossing daily

After a dental veneer treatment, you must take extra care of your new porcelain teeth. Daily oral care aims to remove plaque, a film formed by food and saliva. Plaque contains bacteria that can attack tooth enamel. This can lead to cavities and gingivitis or gum disease. It can also lead to tartar buildup, resulting in periodontal disease. A good after-care regimen includes brushing and flossing daily.

What Can We Eat With Veneer Easily & Avoid?

Avoid acidic foods and sugary drinks because they can loosen your veneer. Also, avoid chewing hard or frozen foods. They can loosen your shell and cause pain. Lastly, you should avoid using tobacco products, which can affect your new veneer. Nicotine products not only stain your teeth but also weaken the bonding agent. 

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Anchorage Dental Arts for more information about dental veneers and what you can expect during the procedure.