Do You Have To Brush Veneers?

Veneers in Scarsdale are an excellent choice to get the smile you’ve always wanted. First, they can literally cover a wide variety of cosmetic concerns, from severe discoloration to misshapen or irregularly sized teeth, gaps, and even some minor chips and cracks.

They are durable and can withstand a lot. With the right care, patients can keep their veneers for 15 years or longer.

However, this doesn’t mean you can relax when it comes to your oral hygiene. Here’s why you still need to brush your teeth after getting veneers.

How Veneers Work 

Many people confuse veneers with dental crowns. But veneers will only cover the front surface of the natural tooth. They’re not caps like dental crowns, which go over the tooth. 

This means that veneers will change how your smile looks, sometimes to a great extent, but your natural teeth will still be exposed to bacteria and food particles.

What Happens When You Don’t Brush Veneers

After you eat, food can linger around the surfaces of the teeth, which attracts bacteria. Eventually, they form a film called plaque, which you can remove every day by brushing your teeth. 

Plaque can form even if you have veneers on, and it can make them appear less shiny or even slightly yellow. 

But this is actually the least of your concerns. Plaque means bacteria are clinging to the teeth, which, over time, can increase your risk for gum disease. The plaque hardens and becomes tartar, which can only be removed at the dentist’s office.

Moreover, poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of cavities and other dental health issues. Developing them after you get veneers may impact your restoration, as the dentist could need to remove your veneers in order to treat your teeth. 

How to Properly Care for Veneers

With the right maintenance, you can both protect your oral health and preserve your veneers for a long time.

Even better, caring for veneers isn’t all that difficult:

• Brush your teeth twice a day
• Floss daily
• Use toothpaste with fluoride
• Cut down on sugars
• Drink water after every meal or snack to cleanse the mouth
• Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables to promote saliva, which naturally flushes away food and bacteria
• Don’t smoke or chew tobacco
• Get a mouthguard to stop grinding your teeth
• Don’t chew on hard objects like pens
• Get routine dental checkups and deep cleanings

Getting Veneers at Scarsdale Smiles

If you’re interested in veneers, the first step towards an upgraded smile is to see Alexander Cox DMD, FAGD for a consultation.

This way, you can find out if veneers are right for you, and get a personalized plan designed to give you the smile you want.

If you’re ready to get started, then book a veneer consultation at Scarsdale Smiles online, or call our office at (914) 723-1186 if you have more questions.