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?
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, FAGD, FAACD, of the Beverly Hills Institute of Cosmetic Dentistry, sponsors this post.