Over the years, porcelain veneers have undergone significant evolution. Initially designed to enhance the smiles of movie stars, they eventually became accessible to the general public, allowing individuals to enhance the appearance of their teeth. While this cosmetic treatment effectively addresses various aesthetic concerns, the question arises: What about cavities? Is it still possible to develop them if you have veneers? Delve into the details to uncover the answer.
Can You Still Get Cavities with Veneers?
Crafted from dental-grade porcelain, veneers are thin shells that conceal the front part of a tooth. Despite not being composed of the same material as natural teeth, the underlying tooth can still be susceptible to decay.
The primary cause of cavities is often attributed to inadequate oral hygiene. Failing to brush for two minutes each morning and night, along with neglecting to floss before bedtime, increases the risk of cavity development.
Additionally, excessive consumption of sugary, acidic, or starchy foods and beverages can contribute to decay. In the event that a tooth with a veneer develops a cavity, the dentist will need to remove the veneer for proper treatment.
4 Tips for Maintaining Your Veneers
Preventing cavities when you have veneers is straightforward as long as you prioritize your oral care. This involves:
- Practicing good oral hygiene – Brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes using a toothbrush with soft bristles to prevent enamel damage. Additionally, use fluoride toothpaste to fortify your teeth against decay.
- Visit your dentist regularly – Schedule regular dental appointments every six months. These semiannual visits enable your dentist to proactively address any emerging cavities or oral health concerns. Additionally, your teeth will receive a thorough cleaning during these appointments.
- Eat with caution – Exercise caution when consuming crunchy bread, marshmallows, peanut brittle, taffy, and other hard or sticky foods, as they have the potential to damage or loosen your veneers. Consider avoiding these foods altogether to preserve the integrity of your veneers.
- Quit unhealthy habits – Refrain from using your teeth to open bottles or packages, smoking cigarettes, chewing on ice cubes, and excessive alcohol consumption, as these behaviors can harm both your veneers and the underlying tooth.
Maintaining the health and longevity of your veneers involves adopting mindful habits and steering clear of potential risks. By practicing good oral hygiene, attending regular dental check-ups, and avoiding certain habits and foods, you can ensure that your veneers continue to enhance your smile!
About the Practice
Residents of Fair Oaks and nearby areas can trust Dr. Ramona Rivera and her proficient team at RnR Dentistry for their dental care needs. Dedicated to helping you attain a vibrant smile, they provide porcelain veneers to enhance the aesthetic appeal of imperfect smiles. Additionally, they offer valuable tips to prevent cavities when you have veneers. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Rivera or to learn more about veneers, contact RnR Dentistry at (916) 967-2217 or visit their website.