Do you dream of having a natural healthy smile but don’t like the look of your teeth when you’re awake?
The veneers are just another of many dental procedures. However, they’re considered a preventive health procedure. You get one veneer to protect the unvarnished teeth. Dental veneers are the perfect upgrade that can give you a natural look that makes your teeth shine.
So, here’s the primer on everything you need to know about errors in dental veneer cleaning.
1. Ignoring Bruxism Issues
One of the most common errors in dental veneer cleaning is ignoring bruxism issues. Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a health condition characterized by grinding teeth and clenching of the jaw muscles during sleep.
Left untreated, it can lead to fractures in the veneers, displaced teeth, and worn-down occlusal surfaces. Patients with bruxism require more frequent check-ups and dental cleanings to accommodate their specific needs and to ensure that the teeth are in a healthy and stable condition.
If bruxism is ignored, it can lead to further complications that can potentially worsen the condition of the veneers and other restorative dental treatments. Therefore, it is important to recognize the symptoms of bruxism and address them immediately to reduce risks in the future.
2. Careless Flossing
Careless flossing is one of the most common errors in the dental veneer cleaning routine. Veneers are thin shells that cover the front of teeth and are sometimes used to fill small gaps or to improve the appearance of a smile. While veneers are durable and are meant to last for many years, careless dental flossing can cause damage to them.
Veneers can be cracked from aggressive flossing or from foreign objects becoming lodged between them. It is important to use waxed dental floss and to make sure to floss around the edges of the veneer gently to ensure it remains intact.
3. Using Hard-Bristled Toothbrushes
Using hard-bristled toothbrushes is commonly seen as one of the most effective ways to clean dental veneers. Although it tends to be a good way to remove stubborn plaque and bacteria, it can cause serious damage if not done with caution and care.
Common mistakes people make when cleaning their veneers with hard-bristled toothbrushes include brushing too hard, using an abrasive toothpaste, and failing to replace their toothbrush after wear and tear. Hard-bristled toothbrushes can scratch veneers if they are used too harshly or not replaced often.
When brushing, people should use a gentle circular motion and should look for signs of wear and tear on the bristles of their brush. Additionally, an appropriate, non-abrasive toothpaste should be used every time the veneers are brushed. Careful cleaning with a hard-bristled toothbrush is key to keeping veneers looking their best. If done incorrectly, it can cause serious and sometimes permanent damage.
4. Using the Wrong Toothpaste
Common errors made in cleaning dental veneers with the wrong toothpaste cause a decrease in their quality and longevity. Most people think that any toothpaste will suffice, but this is not the case. Veneers are typically made of resin or ceramic, and the abrasive properties of some toothpaste can wear away at these materials, causing them to discolor or dim over time.
Certain toothpaste can also contain abrasive substances such as baking soda and sand that can cause discoloration. To protect veneers for as long as possible, use a non-abrasive toothpaste specifically designed for veneers.
5. Smoking
Smoking is one of the most common causes of dental veneer damage. Tar and nicotine in cigarette smoke can get stuck in the pores of the veneers, leading to discoloration, staining, and possible cracking or chipping of the veneers.
To protect dental veneers from the harmful effects of smoking, it is important to take care when cleaning them. Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush is the best way to keep veneers clean. Common errors to avoid include using hard-bristled toothbrushes, which can scratch and ruin the delicate veneers, and aggressive scrubbing, which can loosen the veneers.
6. Eating the Wrong Foods
Common errors in dental veneer cleaning are often made when it comes to eating the wrong foods. Certain foods, such as potato chips, popcorn, sticky candies, and hard foods, can damage your dental veneers and reduce their longevity.
Additionally, stay away from foods that are acidic in nature, such as citrus fruits, vinegar, tomato sauce, ketchup, etc., as these can erode your dental veneers. Always be mindful of how you eat and chew, as being too aggressive with your mouth can cause the veneers to become loose or damaged.
7. Biting Non-Food Items
Many people make the mistake of biting on non-food items when cleaning dental veneers. Biting non-food items, such as pencils or other hard objects, can be very dangerous because they may damage the veneers. The pressure of the bite forces the teeth together, which can cause the veneers to chip and crack.
This could be very damaging to your veneers and could require a costly repair. In addition, biting non-food items can cause chips and cracks to the underlying tooth enamel, resulting in tooth sensitivity, pain, and an increased risk of cavities.
For safe and appropriate treatment, call this local dentist to help you out.
Learn the Common Errors in Dental Veneer Cleaning
Proper dental hygiene is essential for maintaining one’s good oral health and a beautiful smile. Learning the common errors in dental veneer cleaning will help you maintain and preserve your veneers for a long time.
So, always remember to brush, floss, and rinse with gentle toothpaste, and visit your dentist regularly.
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