You recently got veneers and you couldn’t be happier. The chips and stains in your teeth that used to make you feel insecure are gone, and now your smile is confident and flawless. Of course, if you want your results to last for a long time, you’ll have to take care of your veneers with daily oral hygiene. But does it matter which type of toothpaste you use for veneers? As a matter of fact, yes! Here’s what you need to know about choosing the best kind of toothpaste for veneers.
Some Toothpastes Can Damage Veneers
Believe it or not, the kind of toothpaste you use can mean the difference between extending your veneers’ lifespan or damaging them. If you want to keep your veneers in great condition, you should avoid:
- Whitening toothpaste – Although whitening toothpaste doesn’t work on veneers, some people use it to remove stains from their other teeth. Most dentists don’t recommend this, as bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide can wear down the surface of your veneers, causing them to fail more quickly.
- Abrasive toothpaste – Some toothpastes contain baking soda and other abrasive ingredients designed to polish the teeth and clear away plaque. However, these abrasive compounds can leave tiny scratches on the surface of veneers, which could make them duller over time.
How to Pick the Right Toothpaste for Veneers
Luckily, veneers don’t require a toothpaste made specially for them. All you need is a toothpaste that cleans the teeth effectively while also being gentle. That said, it would be in your best interest to avoid whitening toothpastes and those with abrasive ingredients.
Your Toothbrush Is Also Important
When it comes to caring for veneers, the toothbrush you choose also matters. Toothbrushes with hard bristles might seem as if they deliver a more thorough clean, but they can actually do more harm than good by wearing down and scratching your veneers.
Ideally, you should use a soft-bristled toothbrush for your veneers. Also, be sure to only apply a gentle pressure as you brush. This minimizes the risk of wear and tear.
Stick to an Oral Hygiene Routine
Once you’ve chosen the right toothpaste and toothbrush for your veneers, it’s important to develop a habit of using them every single day. Without diligent dental hygiene, you might develop cavities, gum infections, or other oral health issues that could compromise your veneers. To help your new and improved smile last as long as possible, remember to brush when you first wake up and right before going to sleep. You should also floss at bedtime to prevent plaque from building up between your teeth.
Veneers can help your smile look and feel perfect for years to come, but only if you take good care of them by using the right oral hygiene products. Don’t be afraid to ask your cosmetic dentist if you have more questions about caring for veneers!
About the Authors
Dr. M. Faizan Ali and Dr. Naira T. Kraipak are the husband-and-wife dental team at Plush Dentistry, where they help countless patients in the Frisco, TX area achieve and maintain dazzling smiles. Both of them have completed extensive continuing education courses in cosmetic dentistry, including veneers. They would love to help you transform your smile and enjoy results that last! To learn more about veneers in Frisco, TX, contact the Plush Dentistry team at 469-850-0786.