When you have stained or chipped teeth and want a brighter and whiter smile, your dentist may suggest getting restorative dentistry, such as veneers. They’re very thin pieces of material, usually porcelain or ceramic, that are adhered to the top of your natural tooth, giving you a custom dream smile. But how exactly should you care for them? Below are a few tips to help answer this question.

Fortunately, veneers are very similar to your natural teeth so your care routine can reflect that. While veneers won’t last you a lifetime, there are some things you can do to help prolong their longevity, such as regularly brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes and flossing to get rid of excess plaque that might be left over. You should also visit the dentist for a thorough teeth cleaning twice a year to keep an eye on cavities and get a comprehensive cleaning.

Also, veneers are highly durable, but it’s important to take caution when eating items that can break the tooth. Avoid any hard pieces of material or food that could crack or chip the veneers, like candies or chewing on pens. Veneers don’t easily stain, but your dentist might recommend you use a straw to drink sodas or coffee, as well as rinse after drinking a dark wine to prevent stains from setting in.

If you play sports, always use a mouth guard to avoid damaging the teeth or ending up with a crack. And, for people who grind their teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a mouth guard to protect your teeth from the grinding.

For all of your dental care needs, from traditional teeth cleanings to restorative dentistry, like veneers, visit the compassionate team at Main Street Dental in La Crosse, WI. For more than 30 years, their team has been providing quality care for the entire family, so you can rest easy knowing your smile is in good hands. For more information on their services, visit them online or call (608) 784-4063 to set up an appointment today.