Through the years, porcelain veneers have evolved substantially. Originally designed to perfect the smiles of Hollywood stars, these cosmetic dental solutions are now within reach for more people, offering a way to improve tooth appearance. While effective for various cosmetic issues, a common question about veneers arises: Do they protect against cavities? Keep reading to find out if decay is still a concern with this cosmetic treatment.
Can You Still Get Cavities with Veneers?
Made from premium dental-grade porcelain, veneers are delicate shells crafted to cover the front surface of a tooth expertly. Despite their composition differing from natural teeth, it’s essential to recognize that the underlying tooth could still be vulnerable to decay. Poor oral hygiene habits, like not brushing for two minutes in the morning and at night and neglecting flossing nightly, are often cited as main factors in cavity development.
Additionally, consuming excessive amounts of sugary, acidic, or starchy foods and drinks can greatly contribute to decay formation. If a cavity does develop in a tooth with a veneer, dental intervention is required.
It’s crucial to remove the veneer to enable appropriate treatment for the underlying tooth. This emphasizes the significance of maintaining thorough oral care routines to protect both natural teeth and veneer-enhanced ones.
4 Tips for Maintaining Your Veneers
Ensuring your veneers remain free of cavities involves prioritizing your oral care routine with a few straightforward yet essential steps:
- Be mindful of your diet: Exercise caution when indulging in hard or sticky foods like crunchy bread, taffy, and peanut brittle, as they can potentially damage or loosen your veneers. It’s wise to avoid these foods altogether to preserve the durability of your veneers.
- Break unhealthy habits: Refrain from using your teeth for tasks such as opening bottles, smoking, chewing ice, and excessive alcohol consumption. These habits can pose risks to both your veneers and the underlying teeth, potentially causing harm.
- Practice good oral hygiene: To prevent enamel damage, brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes each time using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups: Schedule dental appointments twice a year to have your dentist check for cavities and other oral health concerns, as well as receive cleanings to uphold hygiene.
Preserving the health and durability of your veneers requires embracing mindful practices and avoiding potential risks. By adhering to the aforementioned suggestions, you actively contribute to an enduring smile!
About the Practice
If you’re in need of expert dental care, Brown Reynolds Snow LeNoir Dentistry is the answer. Led by Dr. Stephen C. Brown, Dr. Elizabeth C. Reynolds, Dr. Bobby Lenoir, Dr. W. Neil Snow, and Dr. Stan Szubiak, this team of five skilled dentists provides a wide range of exceptional treatments. With a focus on delivering outstanding experiences, they specialize in porcelain veneers for smile enhancement. Additionally, the team offers valuable advice on cavity prevention with veneers. To schedule appointments or to learn more about porcelain veneers, contact Brown Reynolds Snow LeNoir Dentistry at their Patterson office (804-288-5324), their Ridgefield office (804-754-4161), or visit their website.