If you’ve invested significant time, effort, and money into enhancing your smile with veneers, it’s only natural to want them to last as long as possible.
Veneers have become increasingly popular for concealing imperfections like chipped or stained teeth. They can give patients a flawless, Hollywood-worthy smile, making them a go-to choice for millions seeking their dream smile.
However, despite the excitement surrounding veneers and their transformative effects, a crucial question persists: Can veneers get cavities?
Understanding Veneers
Veneers are delicate, ultra-thin shells crafted from porcelain or composite resin. They are tailored to fit over the front surface of teeth, enhancing and improving your smile.
Whether you wish to whiten discolored teeth, correct minor misalignments, or reshape irregularly shaped teeth, veneers provide a minimally invasive solution for achieving your desired cosmetic enhancements.
Can Veneers Get Cavities? – Discovering the Truth
Now, addressing the main question: can veneers get cavities?
The straightforward answer is no – dental veneers themselves cannot develop cavities.
Veneers are usually made from materials such as porcelain or composite resin, which are inorganic and do not provide a conducive environment for bacteria to thrive.
However, the tooth beneath the veneers is made of mineralized tissue that can be eroded by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, leading to decay.
How Can Your Tooth Get Cavities Even If You Have Veneers?
Whether you already have veneers or are considering getting them, it’s important for you to understand that veneers only cover the front surface of your tooth. They do not completely seal your tooth from the oral environment.
This means that the edges of your veneers can still be exposed to plaque buildup on the uncovered areas of the teeth, particularly around the junction where the veneers meet the natural tooth enamel.
Over time, this plaque buildup can result in cavities forming in the underlying tooth structure.
How to Avoid Cavities with Veneers
Brush & Floss
Brush your teeth and veneers twice daily and floss to remove plaque and food particles. Place particular focus on the areas where the veneers meet the natural tooth enamel to ensure a thorough clean.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Opt for a fluoride toothpaste and consider using a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your tooth enamel and guard against decay.
Lower Sugar Consumption
Lower your consumption of sugary foods and drinks, as they are the biggest culprits of cavities. Choose healthier snacks and beverages, and rinse your mouth with water after consuming sugary items.
Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups
Schedule regular dental appointments for professional cleanings and check-ups. This enables your dentist to monitor the condition of your veneers and underlying teeth, catching any potential issues early.
Quit Smoking
Smoking significantly increases the risk of gum disease and decay, potentially compromising the health of both your veneers and natural teeth. Quit smoking to enhance your oral health and overall well-being.
When to Seek Medical Advice if You Have Cavities with Veneers
Here are situations where seeking medical advice is recommended if you have cavities and veneers:
Tooth Sensitivity
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods may suggest cavity development beneath a veneer, affecting the tooth’s sensitivity near the veneer or overall.
Changes in Veneer Appearance
Discoloration, staining, or alterations in the veneer’s look may indicate decay beneath and require professional attention.
Pain or Discomfort
Another sign of significant decay beneath veneers can be persistent discomfort and pain in the tooth or gums, potentially accompanied by gum swelling, redness, or tenderness.
Loose Veneer
If a veneer becomes loose or dislodged, it might indicate decay or damage to the underlying tooth structure, requiring prompt attention to prevent further issues.
How Can Your Dentist Treat Cavities Under Veneers?
Composite Bonding
If your cavity is small and localized, your dentist might repair it using dental bonding. This process involves applying a tooth-colored composite material to fill the cavity. Your dentist will end by shaping and polishing the material to match the surrounding tooth structure and veneer seamlessly.
Dental Fillings
If the cavity affects a significant portion of the tooth, your dentist may recommend traditional dental fillings. These fillings are crafted from durable materials and shaped to blend seamlessly with the natural contours of your tooth, ensuring a beautiful and natural appearance.
Veneer Removal & Replacement
If the decay extends beneath the veneer, your dentist may need to remove the veneer to reach and treat the affected tooth structure. After addressing the cavity, a new veneer can be applied to restore the tooth’s appearance and functionality.
Conclusion
Although veneers are resistant to decay, the natural teeth they are bonded to can still develop cavities without proper oral hygiene. Regular dental visits are essential for professional assessments and cleanings to detect decay and address any dental concerns.
With diligent care, veneers can enhance your smile for many years, providing confidence and satisfaction with a beautiful, healthy appearance.
Transform Your Smile with Veneers at Seattle’s Best Smiles
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FAQ
Can veneers stop tooth decay?
No, they cannot. Although veneers are resistant to decay, they do not stop the underlying teeth from potentially developing cavities.
How can I treat a cavity if I have veneers?
Small cavities can be treated by delicately removing the decayed part and using traditional dental fillings to treat the cavity. For larger cavities, the veneer might need to be removed to effectively address the decay.
Can veneers be applied to decayed teeth?
Veneers typically require a healthy tooth structure for bonding. If a tooth is decayed, treatment to address the decay and restore the tooth’s health may be needed before applying veneers for optimal results.
