One of the keys to keeping your veneers looking as clean and sparkly as the day you got them is using the right toothpaste. While they are famous for their ability to resist stains, veneers still do need to be cleaned properly to avoid discoloration and prevent cavities from forming beneath them. But what you use to keep them clean matters. Because they are made of porcelain, not all toothpastes are safe for veneers.
Here are the best types of toothpaste for maintaining that white and bright smile for as long as possible.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin porcelain shells that are fitted to your teeth to cover discoloration, stains, and to make minor changes to their shape and size. They are applied by first removing a layer of enamel, and then are cemented into place on the tooth, creating a beautiful white smile. Veneers can last for up to 20 years with proper care, but how you care for them is essential to their longevity.
How Do I Care for My Veneers?
Thankfully, your veneers don’t require any type of special care. You can keep them clean and shiny by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day, and by visiting your dentist for your semi-annual check-ups. But the toothpaste you use does matter, as the porcelain can become scratched by abrasive pastes, so it’s best to avoid gritty varieties like charcoal toothpaste. Furthermore, because peroxide can damage the structure of the porcelain, you should not use whitening toothpaste on your veneers, either. Safe toothpaste varieties include:
- Gel toothpaste: Gels are not gritty and are gentle enough to not cause any damage from abrasion.
- Fluoride toothpaste: Your teeth still need fluoride protection even with veneers, so be sure that no matter which type of toothpaste you choose it contains fluoride.
In addition to using the proper toothpaste, be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to help prevent your brush from damaging your veneers. You can also avoid stains by not smoking and by limiting your consumption of dark colored foods and beverages.
Your veneers are designed to provide you with a healthy-looking, white smile, but to keep that smile for as long as possible, it’s essential that you treat them with care. Try these tips and products to ensure that your veneers keep glowing for years to come!
About Our Practice
The skilled team at Barker, Rohner and Hunt DMD of Raleigh want to see you smile! That’s why we make it our purpose to help our patients achieve their oral health goals. With a mix of compassion, customer service, and the latest in dental technology, we’re happy to provide a variety of dental solutions including general exams, restorations, and cosmetic dentistry procedures.
To schedule an appointment for veneers, please visit our website or call us at
