Veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option, providing a natural-looking and durable enhancement for your smile. However, many who want the treatment ask the same question: Can you still get cavities with dental veneers?
If you want to learn more about veneers and how they are affected by bacteria and cavities, continue reading.
Can Teeth with Dental Veneers Get Cavities?
Contrary to belief, veneers do not make your teeth cavity-proof. While the front surface is covered by a thin ceramic shell, the back of the tooth isn’t affected. This leaves a window open for plaque and bacteria to enter a healthy tooth and cause cavities.
These bacteria can also invade the space between the tooth and the adhered veneer. This is one reason veneer treatment may fail.
What Can I Do to Keep My Dental Veneers Strong?
Now that you know that veneered teeth aren’t invulnerable to cavities, how can you prevent cavities? Here are a few pro-health tips that will keep your veneers in place for a long time:
Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Just like with regular teeth, pearly whites that have been treated with veneers still need to be brushed and flossed. This is the best way to remove bacterial plaque that can cause damage to teeth and gums. As an added measure, you may consider rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash to help kill germs that get into spaces between teeth and veneers.
Watch What You Eat
Plaque is a natural consequence of eating. As food particles mix with your saliva, they form a thin film of bacteria that settles on your enamel. While all foods can create this film, some are worse than others. Limit the amount of sugar and starch you put into your diet. Both compounds are a favorite of oral bacteria and will cause greater buildup.
Get Regular Dental Checkups
If you feel like your oral care isn’t adequate, professional cleanings and exams can help prevent dental health problems and detect them early if they do form. Being proactive is the most important aspect of maintaining the integrity of your veneers.
While veneers can’t protect your teeth from cavities entirely, they do offer some resistance to acids and staining. This will keep your smile bright and healthy despite small bad habits or indulgences. For the rest of your teeth, continue to be responsible for your oral health and take care of your pearly whites. Do this, and your smile will thank you for years to come.
About the Practice
Dr. Cedric Chenet leads a fantastic dental team at Cedric C Chenet DDS PA. They strive to make your treatment efficient and affordable with state-of-the-art dental technology and a friendly staff that’s ready to answer all your questions. If you’re ready for a set of your own veneers, you’re in good hands. Call (321) 253-3136 to schedule a dental veneer consultation or visit the website to learn more.