What Is the Best Toothpaste for Veneers?
Everyone wants a bright, beautiful, attractive smile. At the Center for Dental Excellence in Monroeville, PA, serving areas throughout greater Pittsburgh, PA, Dr. Edward Narcisi provides a number of cosmetic treatments to help patients achieve this goal. Porcelain veneers are handcrafted ceramic restorations that are bonded to the front teeth to conceal chips, stains, and other aesthetic flaws.
Proper oral hygiene is necessary to maintain porcelain veneers and prolong their lifespan. In this article, we will explore the best toothpaste for porcelain veneers and tell you which formulas to avoid. Our team will also offer additional tips and tricks for keeping your smile looking healthy and beautiful for many years to come.
Toothpastes to Avoid
Dental ceramic is incredibly strong. However, certain toothpaste formulas are too harsh and abrasive, and can cause micro-scratches in the surface of your veneers. Abrasive ingredients, such as baking soda for example, can have a negative impact on dental porcelain. This not only compromises the strength of your restorations, it also makes them more prone to discoloration.
We also recommend steering clear of whitening toothpastes. First, there is no need for whitening products on porcelain veneers, as dental ceramic does not respond to bleaching. Hydrogen peroxide, the active ingredient in most whitening pastes, can actually wear down your veneers over time. As a result, you may have to replace them much sooner than you normally would.
Choose Gentle Gels with Fluoride
Rather than pastes, our dental team recommends that you use a non-abrasive gel when cleaning your porcelain veneers. Gels do not typically contain harsh or abrasive ingredients.
Patients with veneers should also be sure to choose a gel formula that contains fluoride. While veneers cannot decay, the underlying tooth structure is still susceptible to cavities. Fluoride helps protect the natural tooth structure from harmful bacteria.
Ask Dr. Narcisi which type and brand of toothpaste or gel he recommends. As always, be sure that any dental product your purchase has the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
What Kind of Toothbrush Should I Use?
In addition to choosing the right toothpaste for your porcelain veneers, it is also important to use the correct type of toothbrush. Hard or medium bristles can damage your veneers, much like abrasive toothpastes. Instead, choose a soft-bristled toothbrush, which can help you gently clean your restorations without damaging them.
Other Tips for Maintaining Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers have an average lifespan of five to 15 years. Patients can help prolong their lifespan by following a few simple guidelines:
- Brush at least twice a day, preferably after every meal.
- Floss once daily to remove plaque and tartar between the teeth.
- Avoid chewing on ice, pencils, pen caps, and other hard objects.
- Visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings.
Contact Us for More Information
If you want a brighter, healthier-looking smile, porcelain veneers may be an option for you. To learn more about this treatment, or to explore ways to maintain your existing restorations, reach out to one of our team members. Contact our practice online anytime or call us at (412) 373-9447.
