Dental veneers have become a trendy solution for hiding imperfections in your teeth. They’re often used to cover chips, cracks, minor gaps, or slightly crooked teeth. Your dentist bonds these resilient ceramic casings to the front of your pearly whites to cover flaws and shield already damaged teeth from sustaining any additional injuries.
Because porcelain veneers are finished with a durable glaze that resists breaking and staining, many people assume they’re also cavity-proof. It’d be tempting to let your oral hygiene habits slide if you felt like your teeth were safe from harm! Keep reading to learn why it’s important to continue your regular dental routine even with veneers.
Can Veneers Get Cavities?
Cavities develop when acids from the food you eat and bacteria in your mouth wear away the protective outer layer of your teeth, called enamel. Over time, your tooth itself can be penetrated and begin to decay. This can leave the tender pulp and root of your tooth vulnerable to disease, as well.
Because veneers consist only of a thin layer of ceramic, it’s often assumed that they cannot get cavities. This is indeed true of the shell itself, but it’s not true for the tooth underneath it. Veneers only cover the front surface of your tooth, so it’s still entirely possible for microbes to gather around or under your dental work and cause problems. If you do develop tooth decay, your dentist will likely need to remove your veneer to mend the affected tooth and then replace it.
How Can I Prevent Cavities with Veneers?
When it comes to your teeth, prevention is the best offense because once damage is done, it can’t be entirely reversed. Your cavity can be filled, but your tooth won’t be quite as strong as it once was. That means caring for your veneers properly is imperative to keeping your mouth healthy, too. You should have a consistent oral healthcare regimen that includes:
- Brushing and flossing twice every day. This ensures toxic plaque buildup is removed so decay and disease don’t set in.
- Choosing the right products. Some commercial toothpaste brands contain ingredients that are abrasive to the glazed finish of your veneers. They can become scratched or grooved, giving germs a way in. If you’re not sure what products are safe to use, feel free to ask your dentist.
- Rinsing with fluoride. Fluoride is an ingredient that is used in a variety of oral healthcare products like toothpaste and mouthwash. It’s known to reinforce your enamel and protect your teeth from cavities.
- Keeping up with dentist visits. It’s important to see your dentist once every 6 months so they can examine your mouth for any signs of disease or decay to treat it early on.
Maintaining these positive habits will keep your veneers, and your smile, in tip-top shape for years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Rabbi earned his undergraduate degree at St. John’s University and then achieved his DMD at the University of New England’s College of Dental Medicine. His caring dental team uses the latest technology and highest-quality tools to ensure you’re getting the most effective treatment in the least amount of time. If you’re interested in veneers and would like to schedule a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (908) 409-0881.