Dental veneers are becoming a popular way to get whiter, straighter teeth. If you are considering making the investment in your smile, there are some habits that you should stop first, so that you do not damage your veneers or have to replace them sooner. Below we explore 4 poor dental habits you need to break before getting veneers.
Using Whitening Toothpaste
Most whitening toothpaste is not great for your teeth and is even worse for veneers. Whitening toothpaste contains small granules which are meant to remove surface stains from your teeth. Although this can whiten your teeth, over a long period of use it can wear down your enamel, which is needed for protection. It is better to whiten your teeth naturally, through regular brushing, flossing, and cutting down on sugar.
Whitening toothpaste can remove the agents that are used to coat veneers, making them wear away. Your dentist will give you all the information you need to know when getting dental veneers, including which toothpaste is best. You can find out more about veneers at Glasgow Smile Clinic and other dental practices. They can give you a free consultation, where you can discuss if teeth veneers are the best option for you to achieve a healthy and natural-looking smile.
Grinding Your Teeth
Most people grind their teeth at some point in their lives, whether this is habit or stress. Teeth grinding is most common at night, and you may notice this in the morning if your teeth feel sensitive or your jaw aches. This is not good for veneers or your natural teeth, as it can cause chips or cracks. If you are not sure whether you grind your teeth, ask your partner or family member to check up on you during the night. You can also speak to your dentist if you are worried about teeth grinding.
The most common cause of teeth grinding is stress, so if something is going on in your life or you are struggling with anxiety, it is best to deal with this sooner rather than later. Doing something relaxing before bed such as meditation or yoga can help. Your dentist may give you a guard to wear at night, which can stop grinding and protect your teeth or veneers, as some people may find it harder to stop than others.
Drinking Dark Liquids
If you drink a lot of tea, coffee, or red wine, this can stain your teeth which isn’t a great look for veneers. Luckily, porcelain veneers do not stain easily, but you don’t want the teeth underneath to be stained too much, or the difference between your veneers and your normal teeth will be obvious. When getting veneers, you want them to look as natural as possible.
Before getting veneers, you should cut back on the amount of dark liquid that you consume. You can also drink through a straw when you have your morning coffee, as this can minimise the risk of staining. If you love red wine, try to replace it with white instead. If you are finding it hard to cut coffee out, try drinking a lighter roast, as this is less likely to leave a stain. For tea drinkers, switch to herbal tea, as this is better for your teeth and your health.
Chewing Your Fingernails And Other Objects
Are you a serial chewer? If so, this is something you need to quit before you get veneers. Although veneers are strong, they are at a higher risk of cracking if you constantly chew your fingernails or other hard objects, such as pens or bottle caps. Breaking this habit can be difficult but there are ways to make it easier. Get someone to keep an eye on you at work and at home, as often, this is something we do not realise we are doing.
If you notice you are constantly putting things into your mouth out of habit, start chewing sugar-free gum, as this can help keep your mouth busy. You may also want to invest in some putty or something that your hands can fiddle with, as this can reduce the risk of putting your nails in your mouth. You can purchase nail-biting varnish, which is meant to throw you off your habit due to the nasty taste. Also, make sure you aren’t opening bottles with your teeth, as this is terrible for veneers and can cause cracks.
Veneers are not easy to replace and are costly, although good care can make them last for around 12 years. Before getting veneers, it is important to break poor dental habits that could cause damage to them. Swap your toothpaste for a veneer-friendly one, make sure you do not grind your teeth, cut down on dark liquids that stain teeth, and quit that nail chewing habit.
