Maintenance of Aesthetic Restorations
These are some suggestions that we recommend to promote the longevity of the restorations that were just placed.
Toothbrush selection
It is critical that you keep your mouth as plaque-free as possible. The teeth themselves may be porcelain or composite, but the margins and tissue still have to be maintained.
Manual toothbrushes are fine as long as the bristles are soft.
Electric toothbrushes are also fine to use on a restored smile. Top of the line brands include Sonicare and Oral B. Many other companies have their own affordable versions of electric toothbrushes.
Floss
Floss is highly recommended to help the margins of the dental restorations stay plaque free. If you need instructions on how to floss properly, please ask.
Toothpaste
It is extremely important to use a toothpaste that is non-abrasive and contains fluoride.
For over the counter toothpastes, we recommend regular toothpastes such as Crest or Colgate. Avoid toothpastes that say “tarter control”, “whitening” or “baking soda” because the abrasives found in these toothpastes are increased and could remove the outside glaze of the porcelain restoration.
Fluoride
Fluoride has proven to be effective at preventing tooth decay. This can be applied in a number of different ways.
- Toothpaste. Always use a toothpaste with fluoride.
- Fluoride rinse, such as ACT. Regular use has been shown to reduce decay up to 40%.
- Prevident Toothpaste (Prescription only). This is 20 times stronger than the fluoride rinse and has been shown to reduce decay up to 80%.
Read more about Fluoride
Smoking will decrease the longevity of the restorations, increase the stain retention, and affect the health of the tissue.
Biting hard objects may lead to fractures and deterioration of the dental restorations. The very edges of the front teeth are particularly prone to chipping. Please be careful with the forces you place on the teeth.
One of the most destructive habits is tooth grinding. If you are aware of grinding your teeth at night you may need to have a niteguard made. Please notify us of you feel that you are grinding your teeth.
If you get your teeth cleaned at another office b aware that the hygienist is likely to use a coarse pumice to polish your teeth. This can be harmful to your restorations. Ask that they do not use pumice on the teeth. Please be assured that when you have your teeth cleaned in our office we use a special non-abrasive polishing paste that will not scratch or dull the porcelain.
Putting these tips into place will help with the long-term success of your new smile. Please feel free to call our office at (435) 658-0678 with any questions you may have about caring for your new smile.
