Clearing up the Confusion: Cavities and Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a great way to hide flaws in your teeth. Whether you have a chipped or crooked tooth or want to cover up discoloration, they can give you the beautiful smile you deserve. These durable shells are bonded to the front of your teeth to hide imperfections and are also strong enough to help avoid future chipping or staining. Many patients assume that because their teeth are more resilient with veneers they can’t get cavities with them in place. Keep reading to find out why this isn’t entirely true!

Are Porcelain Veneers Cavity-Proof?

We develop cavities when unhealthy bacteria and acids from the foods we eat wear down the protective enamel of our teeth. In time, it can deteriorate enough that the tooth itself is penetrated and begins to decay. This can impact far below the surface of your teeth into the roots and nerves, causing more complicated issues as it progresses. Because veneers consist of a thin sheet of porcelain, many people correctly assume they can’t get cavities.

However, the teeth beneath them can! The shells only cover one side of your pearly white, which means all the remaining surfaces are still vulnerable. Germs can still gather around and under the veneer to cause damage.

Can I Avoid Cavities with Veneers?

Proper preventative care is the best method to keep your teeth and veneers in prime condition. Sticking to a regular dental hygiene routine is important to ensure all of your teeth, with or without cosmetic treatments, stay healthy.  Your routine should include:

• Twice daily brushing and flossing. This removes harmful plaque buildup and ensures microbes have less opportunity to thrive.
• Picking the right products. Some brands of commercially available toothpaste have abrasive ingredients that can scratch the polished outer layer of your veneers. Small abrasions in the material allow germs to work their way past the defensive cover. If you don’t know what’s safe to use, call your dentist. They’re sure to be able to provide you with information.
• Use a fluoride rinse. Many toothpastes and mouthwashes contain fluoride which is known to strengthen enamel to prevent cavities. Include this after brushing and flossing to boost your defense against bacteria.
• Maintain dental visits. Your dentist has the tools and experience to identify potential areas of decay before cavities or other issues develop. You should plan to see them at least once every 6 months.

Having veneers is no excuse to skip basic oral care! By caring for your teeth properly, you can keep your perfect smile for years to come.

About the Practice

At Orange Place Family Dental, we treat you like a member of our community. For over 30 years we’ve provided comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages. We use advanced technology onsite to minimize the need for outside providers and extra visits. We’re able to complete the entire process of creating and installing your veneers from start to finish in just 3 visits! If you’d like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on our website or by calling (216) 464-2448.