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Dental veneers are tooth-shaped restorations made from thin material and they are used to hide flaws on the front surface of teeth. They can be used to hide stains that are not responding to whitening treatments, hide a crooked smile or improve the shape or length of teeth.

Dental veneers are very thin and they can be damaged by the wear and tear that occurs with daily use over time.

Getting the most out of dental veneers

Veneers can last up to 15 years when the wearer practices good oral hygiene and avoids habits that can damage them, like biting on hard foods, fingernails or ice. Some uncontrollable habits, like teeth grinding, can also damage veneers. Oral appliances like nightguards can be used to minimize the damage done by such habits.

Dental veneers can also be damaged by direct trauma to the tooth from an accident or contact during sports. A mouthguard can be used to protect teeth and veneers during such activities.

Veneers can be made from composites and porcelain. The former is prone to staining just like real teeth so they can pick up stains and discoloration over time. Porcelain veneers tend to be more resistant to stains, making it easier to maintain their color.

Here are additional things patients who get veneers can do to increase their longevity:

• Practice good oral hygiene: Keeping the mouth free of food particles, tannins that stain teeth and acids that eat away at teeth enamel helps to preserve veneers. Dentists recommend brushing teeth at least twice each day, flossing once daily and using an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce oral bacteria
• Use protective gear: People who participate in activities that can lead to a direct hit to the mouth should use a mouthguard or headgear to protect their teeth
• Do not misuse your teeth: Teeth are meant for chewing food, not biting down on fingernails, opening packages, loosening knots or opening beer bottles. Such things can easily chip veneers or lead to them falling off
• Teeth grinding should be addressed: Teeth grinding can damage veneers since it puts excessive bite forces on teeth. People who are interested in getting veneers but grind their teeth should seek treatment before proceeding

Veneers are not meant to be permanent restorations so they will eventually need to be changed regardless of how well they are maintained, but taking good care of veneers increases their longevity to well over 15 years.

Actual Patient Results

Improve your smile with dental veneers

Veneers are one of the best ways to quickly get the smile you have always wanted. They are not an excuse to skip out on dental hygiene since the remaining parts of the tooth being covered with veneers still need to be protected from oral bacteria and the acids they produce.

Taking good care of veneers allows you to keep your smile for a long time. Call or visit our Dallas clinic to learn more about how veneers and other dental restorations can be used to enhance your smile.

Request an appointment here or call Dallas Laser Dentistry at (469) 838-5292 for an appointment in our Dallas office.

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