Can your favorite mouthwash damage your veneers? You’ll have to look at what’s in the product.

After getting veneers, your dentist will recommend following good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing every day. But can you still rinse with mouthwash? Can you use a popular brand like Listerine? Will it damage your veneers?

The good news is that you can (and should) still swoosh mouthwash daily. But first, read the ingredients carefully. Some products contain alcohol that could loosen the bond between your tooth and the veneer. 

What are veneers?

In 1928, a California dentist invented the veneer prototype for an actor who wanted to change his look for a film role. The veneers were made of acrylic and were meant to be used briefly. Since then, veneers have been perfected — today, they remain a popular method to improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or chipped teeth. Getting veneers entails a much less invasive and complicated procedure than crowns. 

Veneers are made of either porcelain or composite resin material. Of the two, porcelain veneers are more long-lasting. Although composite resin veneers are less durable, they are considered a good conservative option. Both types will be matched to your natural tooth color. You can expect your veneers to have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, provided you take care of them.

To begin the process, your dentist will shave some enamel off your tooth and take an impression of your mouth. It will take about two weeks for the impression to be made into a veneer in a dental lab. During this time, you’ll be fitted with a temporary veneer. 

Once the veneer is ready, your dentist will check the fit and shape to see if any adjustments need to be made. If they fit, your dentist will etch the tooth surface to strengthen the bond between the dental cement used to attach the veneer and the tooth itself.

A follow-up appointment will allow the dentist to check the veneer’s placement. Then it’s up to you to ensure the veneer stays pearly white and lasts a long time, which means using the right mouthwash.

Choosing the right mouthwash

What makes some mouthwashes potentially damaging to your veneers? The alcohol in alcohol-based mouthwashes can wear away the bonding material or cement used to hold the veneer in place. Over time, the bond may become so weak the veneer detaches from the tooth.

A popular mouthwash is Listerine. According to Listerine’s website, some versions of its product contain alcohol. However, the company notes it also manufactures several alcohol-free mouthwashes.

Although many prefer the strong sensation of an alcohol-infused mouth rinse, a non-alcohol version also works. Check the ingredient list carefully, and follow these other tips to take care of your veneers and oral health:

Brush and floss daily. Keep up your dental care routine by brushing and flossing daily. Use non-abrasive toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles.

Avoid dark-colored drinks and foods. Although porcelain veneers can resist stains, you should avoid dark-colored beverages such as wine, coffee, tea, and berries with a deep pigment.

Treat your veneers with care. Veneers are relatively durable but can chip if you bite down on hard objects such as ice and pens. When chewing tough meats, chew away from the veneers.

And schedule your semi-annual dental appointments! A thorough dental cleaning and checkup will keep your teeth free of decay, which is just as important as their appearance.

Your veneer specialists in Wyoming

Schedule an appointment at Espire’s Cheyenne, WY, location today! Our highly trained dentists will give you the smile of your dreams with veneers. Don’t live near our Wyoming, WY, office? Find one of our other locations near you.

Cheyenne, WY
7112 Commons Circle
Cheyenne, WY 82009