6729 Lake Rd,
Windsor, WI 53598

Porcelain Veneer Aftercare

Understanding Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin shells custom-made to fit your teeth and are a popular option for improving the look of your smile. As a form of cosmetic dentistry treatment, porcelain veneers can provide immediate improvements in a person’s smile. You need to know how to take care of them properly to maintain long-lasting results.

porcelain veneers aftercare

Aftercare Tips for Porcelain Veneers

After getting porcelain veneers, you must follow proper aftercare guidelines to ensure their longevity and maintain your new smile. Be sure to follow any post-procedure instructions from your dentist and the tips below to navigate the immediate period following your veneer placement.

  • Be mindful of discomfort: It's common to experience some sensitivity or minor discomfort after getting veneers. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate any discomfort. Follow their instructions and take the recommended dosage as needed.
  • Monitor your diet: In the first few days after getting veneers, it's recommended to opt for softer foods to prevent any damage. Stay away from hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can potentially dislodge the veneers. Instead, go with options like soups, mashed potatoes, and steamed vegetables that are easier to chew.
  • Practice good oral hygiene: Taking care of your veneers and natural teeth requires a commitment to good oral hygiene. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Pay extra attention to the gum line, where the veneers and natural teeth meet. Flossing daily can remove plaque and debris from between your teeth and veneers.
  • Avoid teeth-staining substances: Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining, but it's still important to avoid substances that can discolor them. Limit or avoid consuming foods and drinks known to cause stainings, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco products. If you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize any potential staining effects.
  • Protect your veneers: To prevent accidental damage or dislodgment of your veneers, avoid habits that may put excessive stress on them. Avoid biting or chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails. If you participate in contact sports or activities that pose a risk of facial impact, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your veneers.

How to Clean Porcelain Veneers

To keep your porcelain veneers and natural teeth in optimal condition, it is crucial to establish and maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine. By following these guidelines, you can preserve the beauty and longevity of your veneers while enjoying a radiant and lasting smile.

  • Use a non-abrasive toothpaste: When selecting a toothpaste for your veneers, opt for a product specifically designed for use with them. Choose a non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent any scratching of the veneer surface. It's advisable to avoid toothpaste containing baking soda or strong whitening agents, as they can potentially cause damage or discoloration to the veneers over time.
  • Practice gentle flossing: Flossing is crucial for removing plaque and debris from between your teeth and around the veneers. Use a gentle touch when flossing to avoid accidentally dislodging or damaging the veneers. Slide the floss gently between each tooth and curve it against the tooth surface to clean beneath the gumline.
  • Consider interdental brushes or water flossers: Consider using interdental brushes or water flossers as additional tools to clean between your veneers and natural teeth. These can help reach areas that regular floss may not access as effectively, ensuring thorough plaque removal.
  • Use alcohol-free mouthwash: Incorporate mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid potential damage to the veneers. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for the recommended duration to freshen your breath and help kill bacteria.

How to Brush Your Teeth with Porcelain Veneers

To maintain your oral health, brush your teeth gently at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line and use small circular motions. Take care to focus on the areas where the veneers meet your natural teeth, ensuring thorough cleaning while avoiding any potential damage.

Dietary Considerations for Porcelain Veneers

When maintaining the integrity and appearance of your porcelain veneers, paying attention to your dietary choices is important. While veneers are durable, they can still be susceptible to certain foods and habits.

  • Avoid staining substances: To prevent potential discoloration or staining of your veneers, it is best to limit or avoid foods and beverages that are known to cause stains. Examples include coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, berries, and tomato-based products. If you do consume these staining substances, rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize their impact.
  • Minimize acidic foods and drinks: Acidic foods and beverages can erode the enamel on your natural teeth and may affect the longevity of your veneers. Limit your consumption of citrus fruits, citrus juices, carbonated drinks, and vinegar-based foods. If you do consume them, drink water afterward to help neutralize the acidity. 
  • Be cautious with harder foods: While porcelain veneers are designed to be durable, excessive biting or chewing on hard foods can increase the risk of chipping or damaging the veneers. Avoid biting into hard foods like ice, hard candies, nuts, and popcorn kernels. Cut or break them into smaller, more manageable pieces before consuming.
  • Opt for tooth-friendly snacks: Choose tooth-friendly snacks that are gentle on your veneers and natural teeth. Fresh fruits and vegetables, yogurt, cheese, and nuts are excellent options. These snacks not only support your oral health but also provide essential nutrients for overall well-being.
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain a healthy oral environment and reduces the risk of staining. Water can help rinse away food particles and neutralize acid in your mouth, promoting oral health and preserving the appearance of your veneers.

Protecting Porcelain Veneers

Taking proactive steps to protect your porcelain veneers can significantly extend their lifespan and preserve their stunning appearance.

  • Wear mouthguard: If you participate in contact sports or activities that pose a risk of facial impact, wearing a mouthguard is strongly recommended. A custom-fitted mouthguard provides a protective barrier, reducing the chances of accidental trauma or damage to your veneers.
  • Avoid teeth grinding or clenching: Bruxism, or teeth-grinding, can place excessive pressure on your veneers and natural teeth, leading to chips, cracks, or wear. If you grind or clench your teeth, especially during sleep, consult your dentist about a custom nightguard. Wearing a nightguard can help alleviate the strain on your teeth and protect your veneers.
  • Break bad biting habits: Certain habits can put undue stress on your veneers and compromise their integrity. Avoid biting on hard objects like pens, ice, or fingernails. These habits can cause chips or fractures in the veneers. Instead, find healthier alternatives to satisfy oral habits or stress. Use scissors or appropriate tools to open packages instead of using your teeth.

Porcelain Veneer Long-Term Maintenance & Follow-Up Care

Long-term maintenance and follow-up care are vital to ensure the longevity and optimal appearance of porcelain veneers. Be sure to maintain a good oral hygiene routine, a balanced diet, and regular dental checkups to preserve your new porcelain veneers the best. Consult your dentist if you want to find out more about porcelain veneer aftercare.

Proven Dentist for Porcelain Veneers in Windsor, WI

Windsor Family Dental offers porcelain veneers to patients in Windsor, WI. Our dentists have the skill and experience to design and place the right veneers in any patient’s smile. See more information on the porcelain veneer procedure at our office.

Porcelain Veneer Aftercare FAQs

How long does it take for veneers to settle?

It takes a few days to a couple of weeks for veneers to settle into place after treatment. Minor adjustments in the fit and feel can be made to fine-tune their comfort and appearance.

What is the aftercare for veneers?

Aftercare for veneers involves maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine. This can include brushing your teeth twice a day with a non-abrasive toothpaste, flossing daily, and attending regular dental check-ups for professional cleanings to address any concerns or issues with your veneers.

How long does it take for porcelain veneers to heal?

Porcelain veneers do not require a healing period and once bonded to the teeth allow the patient to resume normal activities immediately.

Can you eat after getting porcelain veneers?

Yes, you can eat after getting porcelain veneers. Be mindful of the foods to stay away from over time with your new veneers. If you underwent anesthesia, it’s recommended to wait until the effects wear off before eating.

Get In Touch With Us

See why people have been coming back to us for over 45 years

Ann B.

I always enjoy my teeth cleaning with Emily. You can tell from her attitude that she really cares about her patients. She really is the best. Everyone is helpful at Windsor Family Dental. I highly recommend them.

Nick Z.

Dana, my hygienist, did a fantastic job. With over 25 years of experience, she skillfully engaged in conversation with me while working on my teeth, making the cleaning process pleasant and comfortable. I also had the pleasure of meeting Kristi, Dr. DeMatthew's assistant, who was friendly and personable. Dr. DeMatthew herself was articulate in explaining the details of my dental health, making sure I understood everything clearly. Overall, my experience at Windsor Family Dental was wonderful, and I highly recommend Dr. DeMatthew and her staff.

Kaci K.

I had to switch dental clinics because of insurance reasons and I am happy to have landed at Windsor Family Dental. The staff here is great and I love Dr. Zhao, she addressed a concern that I’ve had for years and put my mind at ease. Everyone made me feel comfortable and after my visit my lifelong dread of dental appointments has vanished.

Windsor Family Dental
Optimal Wellness Plan

We have you covered!

Enroll in our in-house dental membership plan today!
We have a plan for everyone.

Additional Benefits

12% OFFAdditional Treatment

1 panoramic or full mouth x-ray when indicated

* Invisalign, whitening gels and strips, and resale items excluded from the 12% discount

Enroll Today!

Adult (14 years & older)

$39/mo Save $422

Includes

2 Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Child (13 years & under)

$34/moSave $398

Includes

2 Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Perio - 3x per year

$67/moSave $663

Includes

3 Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Perio - 4x per year

$82/moSave $689

Includes

4 Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

One-time enrollment fee of $99 for existing patients, new patients $149. Enrollment fee waived under annual membership option.

THIS IS NOT DENTAL INSURANCE. Cannot be combined with other insurance or discount plans. Membership plan is specific to one person and cannot be transferred. Covered services not used within the specified time period will not be carried over or transferred. Services will be provided at this location only. Membership plan will auto-renew each year on the renewal date. If a patient presents with periodontal infection, a personalized treatment plan will be presented at an additional cost. The perio plan is strictly for preventive maintenance care.