How to Clean Ceramic Teeth

The process of using ceramic materials to replace or repair teeth is not new. According to the Indiana University School of Dentistry, the first porcelain denture tooth was introduced in 1789. Of the materials used today for tooth restoration, ceramic porcelain comes closest to duplicating the color and translucency of natural teeth. Ceramic teeth are, however, more expensive than other materials and can add up to a major investment. Protect your investment and help your ceramic teeth last longer by cleaning them properly.

Things You'll Need

• Toothbrush with soft bristles
• Toothpaste, low abrasive
• Electric toothbrush with soft bristles
• Dental floss

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Instructions

• 1

  Brush your teeth, including your ceramic teeth, twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching the ceramic teeth.

• 2

  Choose a toothpaste that is low on the abrasive RDA index. Toothpastes that rate 45 or below on the index are gentle enough for ceramic teeth. Contact the toothpaste manufacturer, using the contact information on the box or tube of toothpaste, to find out the abrasiveness rating.

• 3

  Use an electric toothbrush, if you prefer, with soft bristles. Never use an ultrasonic toothbrush; the vibrations can loosen ceramic bonding agents.

• 4

  Floss your teeth once a day. Use care when flossing around your ceramic teeth, and do not pull on the edges of the ceramic work. Visit your dentist as soon as possible if you feel any snags while flossing.

• 5

  Visit a dental hygienist for professional, periodic cleanings as often as your dentist recommends. Use only dental hygienists who have training in cleaning ceramic teeth. Many of the traditional methods to clean natural teeth may permanently damage ceramic teeth.