Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells, typically crafted from porcelain or composite resin, that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance and correct issues like discoloration, chips, or minor misalignment. While the veneer material itself cannot decay, the simple answer to whether you must brush them is an unqualified yes. Daily cleaning is mandatory to maintain the cosmetic result and, more importantly, to protect the underlying natural tooth structure and surrounding gum tissue. Neglecting this routine jeopardizes the health of the foundation upon which your veneer investment rests.
Why Daily Brushing is Still Required
Veneer materials, especially porcelain, are highly stain-resistant and impervious to decay. However, the veneer surface is not self-cleaning, and plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, still accumulates on the veneer’s smooth surface, just as it does on natural teeth. Plaque must be removed consistently to prevent it from hardening into tartar.
The most vulnerable area is the margin where the veneer meets the natural tooth and the gum line. If plaque is left to build up here, it can irritate the gums, leading to gingivitis and eventually periodontitis. Gum recession can expose the tooth structure beneath the veneer, creating a visible line and increasing the risk of decay. Since veneers only cover the front of the tooth, cavities can still form on the sides or back, potentially compromising the integrity of the bond and requiring the veneer’s removal for treatment.
Specialized Tools and Techniques for Veneer Care
Caring for veneers requires a gentle but thorough approach. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, whether manual or electric, is highly recommended to avoid scratching the veneer’s polished surface. Hard bristles or aggressive scrubbing can create microscopic scratches that dull the veneer’s luster and make it more susceptible to staining over time.
The choice of toothpaste is important, as abrasive formulas can damage the veneer material. Products containing ingredients like baking soda, charcoal, or high concentrations of silica—often found in whitening or tartar-control pastes—should be avoided because they can scratch the porcelain or resin. Choose a non-abrasive, non-whitening gel or paste, often one labeled for sensitive teeth, to clean effectively. When brushing, use gentle, circular strokes, paying extra attention to the gum margin where the veneer meets the tissue to ensure thorough plaque removal without causing gum irritation.
Essential Supplemental Hygiene Practices
Beyond brushing, daily supplemental hygiene practices are necessary to clean areas a brush cannot easily reach, particularly around the margins and between teeth. Flossing once a day is necessary for removing food particles and plaque from interdental spaces and beneath the gum line. When flossing near the veneer margins, slide the floss gently into the space rather than snapping it to avoid stressing the veneer’s edge or bonding material.
A water flosser is an effective and gentler alternative, using a stream of water to clean around veneer edges and between teeth. Adding a mouthwash to the routine can help reduce bacteria, but selecting an alcohol-free formula is important. Alcohol can soften the composite bonding material, potentially leading to bond weakening and the veneer loosening.
Maintaining Longevity and Preventing Damage
Protecting veneers from physical trauma and chemical exposure is necessary to ensure their longevity, which can range from 10 to 15 years or more with proper care. Avoid habits like chewing on fingernails, pens, or ice, as these hard objects can chip or crack the veneer material. Also, refrain from using your teeth to tear open packages or bite into extremely hard foods.
While porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant, natural teeth and bonding material can still discolor, creating a noticeable difference. Limiting consumption of highly pigmented substances like red wine, coffee, or dark teas helps maintain a uniform smile. Regular professional dental cleanings are required, but inform your dental hygienist about your veneers. Specialized care is needed, including the use of fine-grit, non-abrasive polishing pastes (like those made with aluminum oxide). Hygienists must avoid using ultrasonic scalers directly near the veneer margins, which could cause chipping.