Can Veneers Get Cavities?

Veneers are one of the most popular ways to improve a person’s smile because they can address most types of cosmetic concerns, such as:

  • Tooth discoloration or staining
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Minor misalignment issues
  • Irregularly-sized teeth
  • Minor chips and cracks
  • Uneven teeth
  • Enamel erosion
  • Worn-down teeth, etc.

But one of the biggest misconceptions people have about veneers in West Bend is that they protect teeth from oral health issues like cavities.

Check out this short article to understand how veneers work and how to take care of your smile.

How Do Veneers Work?

Veneers are thin shells made from porcelain that cover the front surface of your teeth. Some patients often confuse them with dental crowns, which are caps that cover the entire tooth.

But veneers will leave a lot of your teeth exposed. It’s only designed to improve the look of your smile, though it can slightly strengthen weaker teeth and restore minor chips and cracks.

Why Veneers Don’t Prevent Cavities

Cavities form when the harmful bacteria naturally present in the mouth start to feed on food particles left in the mouth after every meal and snack. When they feed, they release acids that can break down tooth enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth.

Without daily brushing and flossing, bacteria are free to feed, and eventually, their acids create a permanent hole in the tooth, known as a cavity.

Veneers will prevent cavities from forming on the front of your teeth since these acids cannot break down the porcelain in the veneers. But remember, part of your natural tooth is still exposed and therefore vulnerable.

If you develop cavities after getting veneers, your dentist can try to treat them without removing the veneers. But this depends on the portion of the cavity, and a lot of the time veneers are removed to treat cavities.

How to Maintain Veneers

Veneers don’t need any special maintenance. You can protect them and your natural teeth by:

  • Brushing and flossing daiily
  • Not smoking
  • Wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth
  • Cutting back on snacking, sugar, and hard foods
  • Eating more fresh fruits and veggies to encourage saliva production
  • Using fluoride products (toothpaste, drinking tap water)
  • Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, etc.

These are all things you can do at home to protect your smile. For an even better result, you should also avoid skipping your routine dental checkups. Professional dental cleanings can keep your veneers in top shape and reduce the risk of oral health issues tremendously.

Interested in Veneers? Oakbrook Dental Can Help

Getting veneers is a lifelong commitment. Before you sign on, it’s crucial to ensure you’re a good candidate for them.

Find out if veneers are the right cosmetic procedure for you by scheduling an appointment at Oakbrook Dental online.

Have more questions? Then feel free to call us at (262) 335-0822 for a short chat!