Your new dental veneers have been custom-designed to fit your smile, while covering up stains, and chips or the damage from tooth decay, or correcting a problem in the alignment of your teeth. On top of that, they have been made to blend in with the rest of your smile.
Veneers are sturdy, and can last from 10 to 15 years. But it is up to you to make sure that they last. The best way to do that is to brush your teeth at least twice a day, and floss before going to bed. You should also continue to see Dr. Kaitilin Riley for your regular cleanings and exams to make sure that your mouth and all of your teeth, including your veneers are healthy. You should wear a mouthguard if you are playing sports or involved in an activity that might result in an impact to your mouth. If you grind your teeth at night, or clench your teeth, talk to the dentist about addressing the problem, either through the use of a night guard or some other means. If a package is hard to open, use a pair of scissors, not your teeth. Opening packages with your teeth can chip your veneer.
Veneers do not stain easily. But if you repeatedly expose them to coffee or red wine, or to continued tobacco use, they will become discolored. Whitening treatments will not work on veneers, but Dr. Riley can clean them during your regular visit. It is possible that over time, your veneers can develop cracks and chips, and the bonding material can wear away. If that happens, you can make an appointment to have the veneer repaired, re-bonded or replaced if necessary.
If you have concerns about taking care of your veneers, contact Kaitilin Riley DDS in the Paso Robles, California, area at 805-238-3880. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and make an appointment for you to see the doctor.
