Your new veneers are an investment in not just your oral health, but in your self-esteem and confidence, too. Naturally, you want to protect that investment for as long as you can. Thankfully, while they won’t last forever, with proper care they can remain in great shape for upwards of 20 years. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining your new look!
How Do I Care for My New Veneers?
Think of your veneers just as you do your natural teeth. Though they are man-made, they still must be brushed and flossed on a regular basis because they do not offer any special protection against cavities or gum disease. They are less likely to stain but keeping them clean will make them look better and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Toothpastes to Use
While veneers do not require any type of special care, there are certain oral health tools that will work better for them than others. One main change you may need to make is the type of toothpaste you use. Here’s what dentists recommend:
- Gel toothpaste: these are generally less abrasive than pastes, so they are less likely to scratch the surface of your veneers.
- Fluoride toothpaste: Be sure to always use toothpaste with fluoride to help protect your tooth enamel against cavities.
Toothpastes to Avoid
Just as there are some pastes that are better for your veneers, there are also some that are downright dangerous. Be sure to avoid:
- Charcoal toothpaste: This trendy toothpaste claims to whiten teeth naturally, but it has been found to easily scratch tooth enamel as well as veneers and is not recommended for use on either.
- Baking soda toothpaste: baking soda has some ability to lift stains, but it can also be dangerously abrasive and damage veneers.
- Whitening toothpaste: Types that whiten with peroxide can be especially harmful to veneers as it can damage their structure.
Other Tools
In addition to having the right toothpaste on hand, be sure you are using the correct toothbrush, too. Experts recommend using a soft bristled brush, as harder brushes can scratch the surface of your veneers. You can use any type of dental floss you prefer, as long as you are flossing between each tooth at least once a day.
Your new veneers can provide many years of healthy, beautiful smiles if properly cared for. Knowing the right tools to get the job done can help you make the most of your investment and enjoy them for as long as possible.
About Our Practice
At Biologic Dentistry, we believe the “how” part of your oral health is just as important as the “why.” That means using biocompatible treatments to provide safe and effective care and working with patients to understand their unique needs before recommending any type of service. From regular semi-annual checkups to cosmetic procedures like veneers, we’re here to help in a way that best suits you.
To schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call 770-651-0329.