I prefer to make products instead of buying them. I’ve heard you’re not supposed to use mouthwash for cosmetic dentistry, like porcelain veneers. Well, I recently had porcelain veneers done and I have always used mouthwash. I feel like it makes my breath fresh. So, I decided to make a homemade mouthwash to use. Does this sound like it will be OK?
Here is the recipe:
- 8 ounces of filtered water (boil)
- 8 ounces of 3% hydrogen peroxide
- 2 TB sea salt
I mix it up and keep it in an airtight container for use daily.
Please let me know your thoughts and recommendations.
– Karen in Wisconsin
Karen,
The good news is that you understand that using a mouthwash that contains alcohol is not good for cosmetic dentistry. This is because it will damage the porcelain veneers by weakening the bond of the veneers to the teeth. Then, staining around the edges would result.
However, you may be at risk for other problems or complications by using your hydrogen peroxide-based mouthwash recipe. The active ingredient in hydrogen peroxide will kill many types of micro-organisms. This may end up putting you at a higher risk for gum disease if it is used over time. Many bacteria that contribute to gum disease are anaerobic. This means that they tend to thrive without oxygen, so much so that oxygen kills them. So, when you use hydrogen peroxide, the bubbles release oxygen, which kills these harmful bacteria. This also means that it will kill many of the beneficial microbes that naturally live in your mouth. If the beneficial bacteria is killed, then the other micro-organisms will thrive because they no longer have to compete. One of these micro-organisms is yeast, also called candida albicans.
Overall, the short-term use of hydrogen peroxide shouldn’t be damaging to the veneers or your oral health, and it will be helpful. But, if you continue with regular use, for example over a two week period, you may end up with an increase in the candida albicans. This has the potential to cause an oral yeast infection, where the surfaces of your mouth become raw and will turn white. These surfaces will peel and leave painful red patches.
You definitely want to stick to an alcohol-fee mouthwash to keep your porcelain veneers safe and looking their best. However, mouthwash is not required for a healthy oral hygiene routine. Regular, daily brushing and flossing is sufficient. But, if you do, make sure it does not contain alcohol.
Thank you for your question. Many people prefer to make their own personal care products so hopefully this information is helpful not only to you, but others.
This post is sponsored by Barrington cosmetic dentist James T. Gavrilos, DDS.