Can I Use My DIY Mouthwash on My Porcelain Veneers?
Posted by writeradmin
I just got porcelain veneers and I do like them and want to make sure that I am taking care of them well. I usually use a mouthwash that I make myself.
Here is what I use:
8 oz. of filtered/boiled water
8 oz. of 3% hydrogen peroxide
2 T. sea salt
I just want to make sure that this is safe.
Carol
Dear Carol,
Often when we get questions about people asking for recommendations on mouthwash, they’re usually talking about over-the-counter brands. In those cases we will tell them to avoid any with an ingredient of alcohol. That’s because it can lead to weakening of the bonding. Your recipe doesn’t have that, but it does contain hydrogen peroxide.
While peroxide will not damage your porcelain veneers, regular use in your mouth will cause problems for you. Peroxide is great at killing bacteria. The problem comes in the fact that it does not distinguish the difference between good and bad bacteria. Using this regularly will lead to an overgrowth of micro-organisms such as yeast, candida albicans. This can lead to oral thrush. It will be perfectly safe enough to use periodically, but don’t do it every day. Maybe weekly at the most.
It would have been best if your dentist told you how to take care of your porcelain veneers. One thing I will warn you about is not to use any over-the-counter whitening toothpastes. These contain abrasives which will damage the enamel on your porcelain veneers and make them more prone to stains. A whitening toothpaste that was specifically developed to protect tooth enamel. It uses a chemical enzyme that is safe for teeth to remove surface stains away from your porcelain veneers.
When you go in for your regular checkups, make sure the hygienist doesn’t use anything like acidulated acid or a power prophy jet on your veneers. These can also do damage to the glazing.
This blog is brought to you by Arnold, MD Dentist Dr. Meredith Esposito.
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