Veneers are one of the best ways to disguise flaws in teeth and achieve a confident, gorgeous smile. They even have the potential to last for 10 – 15 years or longer! However, they will only stand the test of time if you take good care of them. That means you have to be diligent about brushing your teeth twice a day — and you should do so with the right products. Which toothpaste should you use for veneers? This blog post provides important information.
Why Does the Type of Toothpaste Matter?
Some people are under the impression that all toothpastes are basically the same. That is not true. While they all have the same basic purpose — that of removing plaque and debris from the teeth—they may use a vast range of differing ingredients. Some common toothpaste ingredients might be fine for natural teeth but potentially harmful for veneers.
Choosing the Right Toothpaste
Ask your dental team what type of toothpaste they recommend for veneers. They might urge you to buy a specific product. If not, they may give you the following pointers:
- Do not use highly abrasive toothpaste. Most toothpastes have at least a little abrasiveness; the rough texture can help to clean the teeth. Low abrasive toothpastes are best for people with veneers because they run the lowest risk of scratching the porcelain. The abrasivity of toothpaste is measured by a metric known as RDA. Although RDAs are not often published on toothpaste labels, it is possible to find them online. An RDA of 70 or below is considered low.
- Do not use whitening toothpaste. Your veneers cannot be brightened by whitening toothpaste, so there is little point in using such a product. Plus, whitening toothpaste is often more abrasive than non-whitening options.
Your Toothbrush Also Matters
Just like some types of toothpastes can harm veneers, so can some toothbrushes. Be sure to use one with soft bristles so you run as little risk of scratching your veneers as possible. You should also be careful to use light pressure when cleaning your smile; you should never “scrub” your teeth. Being too vigorous when brushing could damage your oral tissues and your veneers, even if you use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Caring for dental veneers is not difficult. Use the right products so your new smile can stand the test of time!
Meet the Practice
The talented team of experts in our dental office offers a range of cosmetic treatments, including veneers. If you are eager to transform your smile, or you have questions about how to maintain the results of an aesthetic service, we are ready to offer any advice or services that you require. To book a consultation, contact our team at 860-263-0441.