Best Toothpaste for Porcelain Veneers
Many people do not realize this, but the toothpaste you use can have a major impact on the condition of your porcelain veneers. Some toothpastes are better than others. In fact, using the wrong kind of toothpaste could take years off the life of your porcelain veneers, requiring premature replacement.
To prolong the life of porcelain veneers, Dr. Eugene D. Stanislaus offers his Brooklyn, NY cosmetic dentistry patients advice on proper aftercare. Below is some insight into the wrong toothpastes to use the right toothpaste to use if you have porcelain veneers.
Why You Should Avoid Whitening Toothpastes
Whitening toothpastes can do more harm than good. The hydrogen peroxide in the whitening toothpaste won’t bleach the veneer material. In fact, the hydrogen peroxide winds up softening the veneer material instead. This means that while brushing your teeth with a whitening toothpaste, you could actually be wearing down the porcelain veneer. Over time, this can have a major impact on its structure and appearance.
Why You Should Avoid Abrasive Toothpastes
Abrasives are common in so many toothpastes. Baking soda is one example of an abrasive. Others include dehydrated silica gels and calcium carbonate. These tiny particles for polishing may seem harmless, but they can act like fine grain sandpaper on your teeth and porcelain veneers. Over time, the abrasives are bound to take their toll. Whitening toothpastes with abrasive ingredients will do even more damage.
Why Non-Abrasive Gel Toothpastes Are Ideal
Given the above issues, we recommend Brooklyn Heights Dental patients use non-abrasive gel toothpastes. These kinds of toothpastes contain no ingredients that will scuff or scratch teeth and veneers, and are free from chemicals that can soften veneer material.
Many non-abrasive gel toothpastes are labeled and marketed as cosmetic dentistry toothpastes that are ideal for people with crowns or veneers. Keep that in mind while comparison shopping. We can also recommend some good toothpastes to you during the consultation process.
Why Your Toothbrush Matters
In addition to the right toothpaste, the toothbrush you use can also make a difference. The wrong toothbrush can damage veneers over time, and it can also be bad for your natural teeth and the gums.
The ideal toothbrush to use is one that has soft bristles and a small head. The soft bristles won’t wear down your veneers or teeth. The small head will allow you to access all the hard-to-reach parts of your mouth. Being gentle but thorough while brushing your teeth is always the best policy.
Continue to Visit Your Dentist Regularly
While brushing and flossing like you usually do is great for improving long-term dental wellness, it’s important that you visit your dentist regularly for routine checkups. We’ll be able to help fight tooth decay and gum disease, and determine if your porcelain veneers need replacing.
If you have old veneers that are worn down, we can replace them for you and make you smile look as good as new.
Contact a Skilled Cosmetic and Restorative Dentist
For more information about porcelain veneers and how to care for them, be sure to contact a skilled cosmetic and restorative dentist. The team at Brooklyn Heights Dental can be reached by phone at (877) 734-1104.