Common Mistakes That Can Damage Your Veneers and How to Avoid Them
Apr 11, 2025 by Mills Haven Dental
Veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment that can transform your smile by masking imperfections and providing a uniform, natural appearance. However, while veneers offer a long-lasting solution to a variety of aesthetic concerns, they require careful maintenance and proper care to ensure they remain in excellent condition. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore common mistakes that can damage your veneers and provide practical tips on how to avoid them. By understanding these pitfalls, you can help protect your investment and enjoy a bright, confident smile for years to come.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Before diving into the common mistakes, it is important to understand what dental veneers are and how they function. Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They are typically made from porcelain or composite resin and are bonded to your natural teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers are used to address a variety of aesthetic issues, including discolouration, minor misalignments, chipped or worn edges, and gaps between teeth. They offer a minimally invasive alternative to more extensive dental procedures while delivering impressive cosmetic results.
Because veneers are a permanent fixture once bonded, they require careful maintenance to ensure that the underlying tooth structure remains healthy and that the veneer itself continues to look natural. Even small habits or lapses in care can lead to damage or premature wear.
Common Mistakes That Can Damage Your Veneers
Even with high-quality veneers, certain behaviours and habits can compromise their durability and appearance. Below are some of the most common mistakes, along with evidence-based strategies to avoid them.
1. Inadequate Oral Hygiene
The Problem:
Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque buildup around the margins of your veneers. Over time, this plaque can harden into tartar, causing gum inflammation, decay at the veneer margins, and even loosening of the bond between the veneer and the tooth.
How to Avoid It:
- Brush Thoroughly:
Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Ensure you gently clean along the gumline and the edges where the veneer meets the natural tooth. - Floss Daily:
Use floss or interdental brushes to clean between teeth and around the veneer margins. Consider a floss threader if you have tight spaces. - Regular Dental Cleanings:
Schedule professional cleanings at least twice a year. Your dental hygienist can remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing may miss. - Consider a Water Flosser:
For patients who struggle with traditional flossing, a water flosser can effectively clean interdental spaces without damaging your veneers.
2. Biting Hard or Chewy Foods
The Problem:
Even though veneers are designed to be durable, they are not indestructible. Biting into hard foods like ice, hard candies, or even using your teeth to open packages can chip, crack, or dislodge veneers.
How to Avoid It:
- Avoid Hard Foods:
Steer clear of hard objects that can place undue stress on your veneers. Opt for softer alternatives where possible. - Be Mindful of Chewing:
When consuming chewy or sticky foods, chew slowly and try to use your back teeth. This helps minimize the force on the front veneers. - Use a Night Guard:
If you grind your teeth or clench them during sleep (bruxism), a custom-fitted night guard can help protect your veneers from accidental damage.
3. Poor Brushing Technique and Over-Brushing
The Problem:
While brushing is essential, using a hard-bristled toothbrush or applying too much pressure can cause unnecessary wear on your veneers. Overbrushing may also irritate the gum tissue surrounding the veneers, potentially compromising their bond over time.
How to Avoid It:
- Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush:
A soft-bristled brush is gentle on your veneers and your gums while still being effective at removing plaque. - Adopt Gentle, Circular Motions:
Instead of vigorous scrubbing, use gentle, circular motions to clean your teeth. This reduces the risk of abrasion on both the veneers and the natural tooth surface. - Consider an Electric Toothbrush:
Many modern electric toothbrushes come with pressure sensors that alert you if you’re brushing too hard. This can help protect your veneers and natural teeth alike.
4. Neglecting to Avoid Stain-Causing Substances
The Problem:
Certain foods and beverages can stain both natural teeth and veneers. Over time, consumption of stain-causing substances such as coffee, red wine, tea, and tobacco can alter the colour of your veneers, resulting in a mismatched or dull appearance.
How to Avoid It:
- Moderation is Key:
Enjoy these beverages and foods in moderation. When you do indulge, rinse your mouth with water immediately afterward to help reduce staining. - Use a Straw:
When drinking beverages that are known to stain, use a straw to minimize contact with your front teeth. - Regular Whitening Maintenance:
Although veneers are stain-resistant, they are not completely immune. Regular professional cleanings and, if necessary, in-office polishing can help maintain their brightness.
5. Skipping Regular Dental Check-Ups
The Problem:
Even if you practice excellent home care, professional dental check-ups are essential to ensure that your veneers remain in top condition. Skipping regular appointments can allow small issues to develop into more serious problems that compromise your veneers and overall oral health.
How to Avoid It:
- Schedule Routine Visits:
Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a thorough examination and professional cleaning. - Discuss Any Changes:
If you notice any changes in the fit or appearance of your veneers, or if you experience sensitivity or discomfort, contact your dentist promptly. - Preventive Maintenance:
Your dentist can apply fluoride treatments or adjust your oral hygiene routine to address any issues before they become problematic.
6. Failing to Follow Post-treatment Instructions
The Problem:
After your veneers are placed, your dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions to ensure that the restorations are set properly and remain durable. Ignoring these recommendations can lead to premature wear, sensitivity, or even failure of the veneers.
How to Avoid It:
- Follow All Instructions:
Adhere to your dentist’s guidance on what to eat, how to care for your veneers, and when to return for follow-up visits. - Be Cautious Immediately After Placement:
Avoid hard or sticky foods for at least a few days post-treatment. This allows the adhesive to fully cure and the veneer to bond securely. - Maintain a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine:
Once your dentist confirms that your veneers are secure, continue with a meticulous oral hygiene routine to preserve the results.
7. Using Inappropriate Oral Care Products
The Problem:
Not all dental care products are created equal. Some products can be too abrasive or may contain harsh chemicals that damage your veneers or irritate your gums.
How to Avoid It:
- Choose Gentle Toothpaste:
Use non-abrasive, fluoride-based toothpaste that is designed for sensitive teeth. Avoid whitening toothpaste that contains harsh abrasives, as these can erode the surface of your veneers. - Select Alcohol-Free Mouthwashes:
Alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out your mouth and irritate your gums, potentially weakening the bond between your veneers and natural teeth. - Ask Your Dentist for Recommendations:
If you’re unsure about which products are best for maintaining your veneers, ask your dentist for advice. They can recommend products that are gentle yet effective.
8. Overlooking the Impact of Bruxism
The Problem:
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can be detrimental to veneers. If you grind your teeth, particularly at night, the constant pressure and friction can cause veneers to chip or become dislodged over time.
How to Avoid It:
- Wear a Night Guard:
A custom-fitted night guard can help cushion your teeth and reduce the stress placed on your veneers. - Manage Stress:
Stress is a common trigger for bruxism. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, exercise, or counselling can help reduce the frequency and intensity of grinding. - Regular Monitoring:
During your dental check-ups, inform your dentist if you notice signs of wear on your veneers. Early intervention can prevent more significant damage.
9. Ignoring the Effects of Diet on Veneers
The Problem:
Your diet plays a crucial role in the longevity of your veneers. Consuming excessive amounts of acidic or sugary foods and beverages can erode the underlying tooth structure and weaken the veneer bond.
How to Avoid It:
- Adopt a Tooth-Friendly Diet:
Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy, and whole grains that support overall dental health. - Limit Acidic Foods:
Reduce your intake of citrus fruits, sodas, and other acidic beverages. When you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water to neutralize the acid. - Reduce Sugar Intake:
Excess sugar promotes bacterial growth, which can compromise the adhesive used to bond veneers. Choose healthier snacks and limit sugary treats.
10. Failing to Maintain a Regular Dental Maintenance Routine
The Problem:
After receiving veneers, many patients relax their oral hygiene routine, assuming that the veneers will protect their teeth. However, veneers are only as durable as the underlying tooth structure and the overall health of your mouth.
How to Avoid It:
- Stick to a Rigorous Oral Hygiene Routine:
Continue brushing twice daily, flossing, and cleaning your tongue to remove plaque and bacteria. - Regular Dental Visits:
Even if your veneers look perfect, regular check-ups are essential. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your veneers and the health of your surrounding tissues. - Avoid Harmful Habits:
Stay away from habits that can damage your veneers, such as chewing ice or biting on hard objects.
The Benefits of Protecting Your Veneers
Taking the necessary precautions to protect your veneers has far-reaching benefits. Not only will it help maintain your beautiful smile, but it also supports the health of your underlying natural teeth. Preserving your veneers can:
- Enhance Your Confidence:
A well-maintained smile boosts your self-esteem and leaves a lasting impression. - Reduce the Need for Future Repairs:
Avoiding common mistakes means you won’t need to replace or repair your veneers prematurely, saving you time and money. - Promote Overall Oral Health:
By following a comprehensive oral care routine, you protect not just your veneers but your entire mouth from decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
The Role of Regular Dental Checkups in Veneer Maintenance
Even with impeccable home care, regular professional checkups are vital for ensuring the long-term success of your veneers. During these visits, your dentist will:
- Monitor the Integrity of Your Veneers:
Check for any signs of damage, wear, or dislodgement. - Assess the Health of Surrounding Tissues:
Evaluate the condition of your gums and the underlying natural teeth. - Provide Professional Cleanings:
Remove any plaque or tartar that might accumulate around the veneer margins. - Offer Tailored Advice:
Based on the condition of your veneers, your dentist might recommend adjustments to your oral hygiene routine or suggest additional preventive measures.
Regular dental visits not only help maintain your veneers but also catch potential issues early, ensuring that your smile remains as vibrant and healthy as the day your veneers were placed.
The Impact of Overall Health on Veneer Longevity
Your overall health is closely linked to the success and longevity of your veneers. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and effective stress management contribute to a robust immune system, which in turn helps protect your teeth from decay and gum disease. Furthermore, maintaining good general health supports the longevity of dental restorations by reducing inflammation and ensuring that your body can effectively repair any minor damage.
For example, a nutrient-rich diet high in calcium, vitamin D, and antioxidants not only strengthens your natural teeth but also reinforces the bond between your veneers and the underlying tooth structure. Additionally, managing conditions such as diabetes or chronic inflammation through proper medical care can help prevent complications that might compromise your veneers.
Practical Tips for Maintaining Your Veneers
Achieving long-lasting results with your veneers requires a proactive approach. Here are some actionable strategies to help you care for your veneers:
Establish a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine
- Brush Twice Daily:
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive, fluoride toothpaste to gently clean your teeth and veneers. Focus on cleaning along the gumline to prevent plaque accumulation. - Floss Regularly:
Floss or use interdental brushes to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth. Pay extra attention to the margins where the veneers meet your natural teeth. - Tongue Cleaning:
Brush or scrape your tongue to reduce bacterial buildup, which can contribute to bad breath and overall oral health issues.
Make Smart Dietary Choices
- Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods:
Reduce your consumption of foods and beverages that can erode enamel or compromise the adhesive bond of your veneers. - Stay Hydrated:
Drinking water throughout the day helps rinse away food particles and dilute acids, protecting both your veneers and natural teeth. - Incorporate Tooth-Friendly Foods:
Choose nutrient-rich foods that support enamel strength, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and nuts.
Avoid Habits That Damage Your Veneers
- Avoid Biting Hard Objects:
Steer clear of chewing ice, hard candies, or using your teeth as tools to open packages. - Minimise Bruxism:
If you grind your teeth, consider using a night guard to prevent excessive wear on your veneers. - Limit Staining Substances:
While veneers are resistant to staining, it’s wise to moderate your intake of stain-causing beverages like coffee, red wine, and tea. When you do consume these drinks, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
Regular Professional Maintenance
- Schedule Routine Dental Visits:
Regular check-ups ensure that any potential issues are caught early and addressed promptly. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that may not be fully eliminated at home. - Discuss Any Concerns with Your Dentist:
If you notice any changes in the appearance or fit of your veneers, consult your dentist immediately. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating.
Conclusion
Preserving your smile is not only about addressing dental issues but also about making informed decisions regarding cosmetic treatments like veneers. Veneers offer an effective way to enhance your appearance by correcting minor imperfections, including slight misalignments, stains, and chips, all while preserving your natural tooth structure. However, like any dental restoration, veneers require proper care to ensure longevity and optimal performance.
By avoiding common mistakes such as inadequate oral hygiene, biting hard foods, poor brushing techniques, and neglecting regular dental check-ups, you can protect your veneers and enjoy a beautiful, lasting smile. Incorporating smart dietary choices, maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine, and staying informed about the latest advancements in cosmetic dentistry are all part of a holistic approach to oral health.
Your overall health plays a significant role in the success of cosmetic treatments. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, combined with regular professional care, not only enhances the durability of your veneers but also contributes to a healthier, more confident you.
If you’re considering veneers or need advice on how to care for your existing restorations, contact Mills Haven Dental today to schedule an appointment. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve a stunning, long-lasting smile through expert care and personalized treatment plans.