Many people have extensive aesthetic defects in their teeth that can affect their self-confidence and make them less willing to show off their smiles. Thankfully, cosmetic dentistry offers a range of treatments that can help a person achieve a more beautiful grin. Veneers are a remarkably versatile treatment that can reshape teeth and conceal unsightly defects like chips, cracks, stains, and gaps. Since brushing your teeth is still crucial after receiving veneers, here’s a brief guide to how to find the best toothpaste to keep your smile in great shape.
Why Do I Need to Brush After Receiving Veneers?
While veneers protect the teeth that receive them from damage, it’s still important to practice excellent oral hygiene after receiving them. If the teeth wearing veneers are not regularly and thoroughly cleaned, they will develop infections such as cavities that can cause the appliance to fail and eventually lead to tooth loss.
Why Does the Type of Toothpaste I Use Matter?
Veneers are made from a high-quality ceramic material that allows them to mimic the ideal appearance of natural tooth enamel while lasting for up to fifteen years if they receive excellent care. While it’s imperative to brush and floss regularly after receiving veneers, certain types of toothpaste can diminish their appearance by leaving unsightly scratches upon them.
- Abrasive toothpaste: Many brands of toothpaste use abrasive ingredients such as baking soda to polish teeth and remove plaque and food debris. These substances can be quite harsh on your veneers.
- Whitening toothpaste: Veneers cannot be whitened by whitening toothpaste, but the whitening agents they contain such as hydrogen peroxide can damage their structure.
Which Toothpaste Should I Use After Getting Veneers?
It isn’t necessary to use a special toothpaste designed to clean dental restorations after receiving veneers, but it’s best to use a product that is gentle on your cosmetic appliances while still effective at cleaning your teeth. Gel-type toothpastes can be a great choice for veneers since they can remove plaque and fight cavities without damaging your veneers.
Excellent aftercare is the best way to keep your veneers in gorgeous shape. Stocking up on the right toothpaste can set your appliances up to stay functional and beautiful for many years.
About the Author
Dr. Dalton C. Hunt earned her dental degree from the University of Louisville before completing a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at UNC-Chapel Hill. She has since participated in many continuing education courses focusing on topics such as dental implants and restorative dentistry. Her office in Raleigh offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as veneers. To learn more about excellent veneer care, contact her staff online or dial (919) 787-8243.