4 Tips to Extend the Longevity of Your Lumineers®

Lumineers® are thin shells of tooth-colored material (known as Cerinate) that are applied to visible front teeth to address cosmetic concerns such as chips, cracks, short teeth, and gaps between teeth. Lumineers® are durable and can last for 20 years or more with proper care.

4 Ways to care for Lumineers® to extend their longevity

Patients can extend the longevity of their Lumineers by practicing good oral hygiene, making smart dietary choices, avoiding dental trauma when possible, and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. This should help avoid early stains or damage in the form of chips, cracks, and other breaks to the Lumineers.

1. Brush and floss regularly

Lumineers are made of a stain-resistant material. However, stains can still develop over enough time if plaque regularly builds up on teeth. Consequently, it is important for patients to brush and floss several times each day to keep the mouth clean and fresh and avoid the accumulation of plaque and tartar that contributes to stains and damage to their Lumineers.

2. Avoid foods and drinks that can cause stains

As mentioned, Lumineers are vulnerable to stains in the same way that natural teeth can stain. This means the same foods and drinks that can stain enamel can stain the porcelain material. It is important to limit the consumption of coffee, tea, alcohol, sugar-filled snacks, and tomato-based dishes. Of course, these foods and drinks are fine once in a while as long as the patient practices good oral hygiene after consumption, but limiting these stain-causing foods and drinks is encouraged.

3. Protect teeth from dental trauma

Dental trauma can result from a blow to the mouth, damage from teeth grinding while asleep, and from biting down on ice or hard foods. It is important to avoid dental trauma by wearing a mouthguard (or nightguard) during sports activities or if you have bruxism. Of course, it is also important to avoid chewing ice and stay away from hard candies. This can protect the Lumineers from chips, cracks, and other forms of damage.

4. See the dentist for regular cleaning and check-up visits

Regular cleaning and check-up visits are important with Lumineers to remove plaque and tartar on the Lumineers, natural tooth enamel, and along the gum line. Conditions such as gum disease and cavities to surrounding teeth can affect the longevity of your Lumineers. A check-up visit also gives the dentist the opportunity to ensure that there are no issues with the Lumineers, and they can detect and treat any concerns in the earliest stages possible. Check-up and cleaning visits are encouraged for all patients, especially those with Lumineers, once every four to six months.

Learn more about Lumineers® aftercare from our experienced team

Lumineers are a great way to improve your smile in the long term if you have minor imperfections with visible teeth. If you would like to learn more about how Lumineers can specifically benefit you, then we encourage you to contact our dental practice today to arrange for an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://gkdentaloffice.com or call GK Dental PC at (617) 826-6075 for an appointment in our Everett office.

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