Dental veneers are an excellent cosmetic solution for enhancing your smilemasking imperfections, closing gaps, and improving tooth color and shape. Once your veneers are placed, maintaining them with proper oral hygiene is essential to keep them looking great and lasting for years.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we want you to enjoy your veneers with confidence. This guide offers expert advice on safe brushing and flossing post veneer treatment to protect your investment and support your oral health.
Why Proper Care Matters After Veneer Placement
While veneers are made from durable materials like porcelain or composite resin, the underlying natural teeth and surrounding gums still require gentle care. Aggressive brushing or flossing can cause:
Gum irritation or recession
Damage to veneer edges or bonding
Increased risk of decay at the veneer margins
Proper techniques preserve both your veneers and your natural teeth.
How to Brush Safely After Getting Veneers
1. Choose the Right Toothbrush
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching the veneers and irritating your gums.
Consider an electric toothbrush with a sensitive or gentle mode for thorough but careful cleaning.
2. Use Non-Abrasive Toothpaste
Avoid whitening or abrasive toothpastes, which can wear down veneers and bonding.
Opt for a fluoride toothpaste recommended by your dentist.
3. Gentle Brushing Technique
Brush with light pressure using small circular motions.
Focus on cleaning the gum line and the surface of the veneers.
Avoid harsh back-and-forth scrubbing that could loosen the veneers.
4. Brush Twice Daily
Consistent brushing helps prevent plaque buildup and gum disease around veneers.
How to Floss Properly Post Veneers
1. Use Waxed Floss
Waxed floss slides easily between veneers and teeth without snagging or damaging bonding.
2. Be Gentle
Carefully glide floss between teeth without snapping or forcing it.
Curve the floss into a C shape around each tooth and gently move up and down.
3. Consider Floss Alternatives
If flossing is difficult or uncomfortable, use interdental brushes or water flossers to clean between teeth.
4. Floss Daily
Flossing removes plaque and food debris from areas a toothbrush cant reach, essential for gum health.
Additional Tips for Veneer Care
Avoid biting on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails to prevent chipping.
Limit consumption of staining foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries.
Rinse your mouth with water after consuming stain-causing foods.
Dont use tobacco products, as they increase staining and gum problems.
Attend regular dental checkups and professional cleanings to monitor your veneers and oral health.
When to Contact McLevin Dental
Reach out if you notice:
Chips, cracks, or loosening of veneers
Gum inflammation, bleeding, or recession around veneers
Persistent sensitivity or pain
Difficulty cleaning veneers or discomfort while flossing
Early attention helps maintain your veneers beauty and function.
Protect Your Smile with Proper Care
Your veneers enhance your smiles appearance, and proper brushing and flossing keep that smile healthy and stunning. With gentle daily care and routine dental visits, your veneers can last for many years, providing confidence and beauty.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, were here to support your smile every step of the way. If you have questions about caring for your veneers or need a professional cleaning, contact our friendly team.