Is my mouthwash damaging my porcelain veneers? (2024)

Posted on by AllSmiles.

My sister told me that she read that mouthwash damages porcelain veneers. She texted me and said that I should get rid of my mouthwash because it loosens the bonding. I’ve been rinsing my mouth more often since the pandemic because I have a public-facing job. Although I wear a mask, I regularly rinse my mouth with mouthwash to kill the germs. Is my mouthwash damaging my veneers? Thank you. Krystin from Montana

Krystin,

The basics for maintaining good oral hygiene with porcelain veneers are flossing between your teeth, brushing them at least twice daily (but not over-brushing), and getting regular dental exams in cleanings. We recommend that you avoid abrasive toothpaste. Also, ensure you get your teeth cleaned by a hygienist trained to care for porcelain veneers and avoid using power polishing equipment and specific polishing agents that will scratch veneers.

Is mouthwash damaging your veneers?

Is my mouthwash damaging my porcelain veneers? (1)

Major mouthwash brands offer at least one alcohol-free option

Mouthwash will damage veneers if it is alcohol-based. Alcohol softens the bonding that makes your veneers adhere to your teeth. Alcohol-free mouthwash will not harm veneers.

Which mouthwash should you use?

Read labels—front and back—for all mouthwash products. Most mouthwash contains alcohol, but alcohol-free mouthwash is clearly labeled and safe to use if you have porcelain veneers. Most major brands offer at least one type of mouthwash that is alcohol free. Remember: read the labels carefully.

Brian LeSage, DDS, fa*gD, FAACD, of the Beverly Hills Institute of Cosmetic Dentistry, sponsors this post.

Is my mouthwash damaging my porcelain veneers? (2024)

FAQs

Is my mouthwash damaging my porcelain veneers? ›

Mouthwash will damage veneers if it is alcohol-based. Alcohol softens the bonding that makes your veneers adhere to your teeth. Alcohol-free mouthwash will not harm veneers.

Does mouthwash ruin veneers? ›

Use mouthwashes that are alcohol-free, especially sodium-fluoride mouthwash. In truth, only heavy mouthwash use would make this apparent, as the “staining” would come from weakening. This applies to both porcelain and composite veneers as alcohol can soften the bond between the veneer and the natural tooth.

What mouthwash is best for porcelain veneers? ›

There are brands of alcohol-free mouthwash. Just be sure to read the label. A couple brands that do not contain alcohol are Crest Pro-Health and Breath-Rx. There are others too again just be careful and read the ingredient list.

What is bad for porcelain veneers? ›

Tough, chewy foods

These items can become lodged between teeth and along the gum line, creating more opportunities for bacteria and decay. Thick-crusted breads, tough cuts of meat, jerky, dried fruits, and sticky candies can also loosen veneers, which will then require prompt repair or replacement.

What weakens veneers? ›

Wear and tear. Porcelain veneers are sturdy, but they can also be damaged through normal wear and tear caused by chewing and biting. Bad habits such as teeth grinding and opening hard substances with your teeth can hasten deterioration and cause damage to the veneers.

What destroys veneers? ›

Alcohol (excessive alcohol consumption can ruin the bonding material and cause your veneers to become less secure) Acidic foods and beverages such as lemonade, citrus fruits or tomato sauce (these items can erode the bonding material) Sticky candies. Foods and beverages which may stain your teeth.

Can your teeth still rot with veneers? ›

Fortunately, provided the veneers are bonded and maintained properly, teeth do not rot under veneers. However, if your veneers are not bonded closely to your natural teeth, it's possible for bacteria and food particles to become lodged between your tooth and the veneer. If left unaddressed, this can cause tooth decay.

What will whiten porcelain veneers? ›

At-home kits won't whiten your veneers, so you'll need to go to your dentist if you want a veneer whitening treatment that will be effective. A professional-level cleaning can refinish the porcelain glaze on your veneers and make them look new.

What is the best way to clean porcelain veneers? ›

How to Clean Porcelain Veneers
  1. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to brush your veneers. ...
  2. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste. ...
  3. Use gentle motions when brushing and flossing. ...
  4. Use an alcohol-free mouthwash every time you brush.

Do porcelain veneers get plaque? ›

While they're durable, veneers collect plaque and tartar buildup the same way your natural teeth do, so it's vital to continue a consistent dental hygiene routine. While veneers themselves are not susceptible to decay, your natural teeth that reside underneath them are still vulnerable to cavities.

Does anyone regret getting veneers? ›

Most people do not have any regrets about moving forward with veneers. If anything, they regret having waited so long to correct their smile. Veneers can erase years and years of insecurities and confidence issues.

What is the downside of having veneers? ›

Drawbacks of Dental Veneers:

If you take care of your teeth routinely and properly, the damage is unlikely to occur. But there is still a possibility of chipping, breaking, and detachment. Though they can be replaced, the process must be repeated, making it costly.

Do porcelain veneers look fake? ›

Porcelain veneers can be very natural looking, but if they are made cheaply with no regard to your natural smile, they may end up looking fake. This is a question I get asked almost anytime I bring up veneers as a potential treatment option for my patients.

What happens to veneers after 10 years? ›

After 10 years, you may notice more noticeable wear and changes in the appearance of your veneers. This can include slight discoloration, chipping, or minor wear at the edges. Maintenance and possible replacement may be discussed with your dentist.

What is the lifespan of veneers? ›

According to the American Dental Association, veneers last about ten years; however, they're not permanent—and how long veneers last depends on how you care for them. Most veneers are made out of porcelain that provides excellent esthetics and longevity.

Why do porcelain veneers fall off? ›

Poor Dental Technique Reflects on the Results

But the primary reason veneers fall off is the dentist's poor technique. This can start with an overly aggressive approach to shaving the tooth, so that not enough is left to provide a stable platform to which the veneer would be attached.

Can I use mouthwash with temporary veneers? ›

Maintain a Good Dental Routine

This means you will still have to brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day, floss once a day and rinse with an ADA approved non-alcohol mouthwash.

Can flossing break veneers? ›

The answer is absolutely yes, you can floss your veneers, and you should. You will not risk pulling off your dental work by flossing around them, and while the porcelain of your veneers won't decay, you need to brush and floss properly to protect the other teeth.

Can your breath stink with veneers? ›

The last thing you want or would expect is for a cosmetic dentistry solution like veneers to cause foul odours, but there is a connection. No, veneers do not cause bad smells in your mouth. Foul smells can develop around the edges of veneers if you neglect your oral hygiene.

Can dental veneers fall off? ›

A dental veneer is adhered to the front-facing portion of your tooth using special cement. However, since it's supposed to be replaced every few years, the adhesive is not permanently binding. So, even though veneers are durable, they can fall off if they encounter excessive amounts of pressure.

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