Veneers can give your smile a brighter, more uniform appearance, but maintaining them requires more than simply avoiding foods that stain. Choosing the right toothpaste is also important! Let’s discuss the best type to use for your veneers to protect your investment and keep your smile looking its best.
Choose a Gentle, Non-Abrasive Toothpaste
When you have veneers, look for a toothpaste described as gentle or non-abrasive. Highly abrasive toothpastes can gradually wear or scratch the surface of some dental materials. While veneers are durable, unnecessary abrasion can affect their smooth surface over time.
Ask your dentist which toothpaste they recommend for your specific type of veneers. Your dentist can consider the material used for your veneers and your individual oral health needs when making a recommendation.
Look for Fluoride
Even though veneers themselves cannot develop cavities, the natural teeth underneath and around them are still vulnerable to decay. Choosing a fluoride toothpaste can help strengthen natural enamel and protect against cavities.
Fluoride is particularly important because veneers do not eliminate the need for preventive dental care. You still need to brush regularly and clean between your teeth to protect the natural tooth structure supporting your restorations.
Be Careful with Whitening Toothpastes
Whitening toothpaste can be tempting if you want to keep your smile bright, but it is important to understand how these products work. Many whitening toothpastes primarily remove surface stains using polishing or abrasive ingredients. They generally cannot change the intrinsic color of veneers.
Using a highly abrasive whitening toothpaste may provide little benefit for the veneers while potentially creating unnecessary wear on the restoration or natural teeth. Talk with your dentist before adding a whitening product to your routine.
Avoid Harsh DIY Products
Natural or homemade does not always mean gentle. Some DIY whitening mixtures, abrasive powders and other products can be too harsh for your teeth, gums or veneers.
If you are concerned about discoloration, ask your dentist about safe options. Professional recommendations can help you avoid accidentally damaging your restorations while trying to improve your smile.
Your Brushing Technique Matters, Too
The best toothpaste will not protect your veneers if you brush too aggressively. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure when cleaning your teeth. Brush twice a day and pay attention to the gumline and areas around your veneers.
Cleaning between your teeth is also important because plaque can accumulate around the edges of veneers and contribute to gum inflammation or decay in the underlying natural tooth.
In general, a gentle, non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste is a good starting point, but your dentist can recommend a product based on your veneers and oral health.
About the Author
Over the course of her 3-decade career, Dr. Karen Littlefield Neil has crafted an approach to dental care based on establishing trust with her patients. She became interested in dentistry while working at an orthodontic office during high school in neighboring Arlington and followed her dreams to the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where she earned her dental degree. In 1993, she opened her very own practice here in Fort Worth and has faithfully served her community ever since. For more information and booking, visit Dr. Neil’s website or call (817) 738-3368.