Is it Possible to Get Cavities with Veneers?

Porcelain veneers can enhance your smile and boost your confidence by fixing dental damage, misalignment, and closing gaps between teeth. However, if you aren’t sure how maintaining your veneers properly works, it could cause you to develop some issues, like developing a cavity underneath one of them. Read on to learn what problems you could face if you aren’t diligent about maintaining your oral health with veneers.

How Can Teeth Get Cavities with Veneers?

Porcelain veneers don’t replace teeth, they’re simply placed over the visible surface of them to conceal damage. For this reason, it’s still possible for your teeth underneath them to experience decay and other oral issues. Here are some of the causes of cavities beneath your restorations:

• Improperly placed veneers or older veneers that need to be replaced can accumulate food debris and bacteria underneath them, causing decay.
• The back sides of your teeth with veneers are still exposed to the dangers of plaque, food debris, and tartar buildup.
• Porcelain veneers don’t get rid of or treat cavities, so if you have untreated decay before you receive this procedure, you’ll still have that issue afterward if you don’t address it.

How Can You Prevent Cavities if You Have Veneers?

There’s no need to be worried about developing cavities with porcelain veneers on your teeth, as long as you keep up with a regular oral hygiene routine and visit your dentist semi-annually, you should be able to keep your veneer-bearing teeth healthy. Here are some tips to keep cavities from developing beneath your restorations:

• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning to make sure that none of your veneers are cracked or worn down.
• Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once every day.
• Get veneers from a trusted, experienced cosmetic dentist that you can trust.

What Are Some Additional Tips for Maintaining Veneers?

When it comes to getting the most out of your porcelain veneers, it’s important to take excellent care of them by following your cosmetic dentist’s recommendations and sticking to your normal at-home hygiene routine. Here are some additional ways you can protect and preserve your porcelain veneers:

• Avoid chewing on foods that are sticky and hard.
• Protect your teeth if you grind them at night.
• Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid wearing down or scratching your veneers.
• Stop bad oral habits like nail-biting and tobacco use.

If you have any concerns about your veneers, always remember to immediately contact your cosmetic dentist to keep the issue from becoming worse. Otherwise, with the proper care, you should be able to enjoy your bright, new smile for years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Aom Arrechea was born and raised in Thailand before moving to the United States in 2006 and completing her dental education at the University of Southern California. She has years of experience under her belt and regularly takes continuing education courses to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in her field, allowing her to offer a wide array of cosmetic treatments. For questions or to schedule a consultation to learn whether porcelain veneers are right for you, visit Daily Smiles Dental Dallas’ website or call 214-233-9460.