Can You Still Get Cavities with Porcelain Veneers?
According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the need for cosmetic dental work has actually doubled within the last five years—meaning more people than ever before are opting to enhance their pearly whites with awesome options such as porcelain veneers. But it’s important to note that veneers don’t excuse you from practicing good oral hygiene—your natural teeth are still quite vulnerable to tooth decay! Here’s more from your cosmetic dentist in Bonita Springs about how you can avoid cavities while keeping your veneers bright and white.
Can You Still Get Cavities with Porcelain Veneers?
To put it simply, porcelain veneers themselves cannot get cavities; but the underlying teeth they’re bonded to still can! Veneers function by covering the outer surface of your teeth, which still leaves the remaining tooth structure (that you can’t see) susceptible to decay. Unfortunately, if you neglect to care for your teeth, and a cavity forms around or underneath your veneer, the decay must be removed before the problem continues to escalate. This also means that a new veneer must eventually be placed.
Tips for Avoiding Cavities with Veneers
Upon receiving your veneers, your dentist will provide you with important information concerning their care. Fortunately, veneers don’t require any specialized maintenance; you simply need to care for them as you would your natural teeth. That said, here are some useful tips to help you avoid cavities and make the most out of your treatment:
- Practice excellent oral hygiene – Veneers don’t excuse you from practicing good oral hygiene! You should brush your teeth twice a day for 2 minutes each time using a soft-bristled toothbrush coupled with a fluoride toothpaste. You should also floss daily and use an antibacterial mouth rinse.
- Visit your dentist for preventive care – Visiting your dentist twice a year for regular checkups and cleanings is one of the best things you can do for your oral health whether you have veneers or not—but it greatly benefits your veneers in that your dentist can inspect them and confirm their integrity.
- Stick to a healthy diet – This is good advice in general, but sticking to a healthy, vitamin-rich diet will benefit your body and your smile. Rather than sugary or starchy snacks and treats, opt for nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, low-fat dairy products, and more. Also consider drinking plenty of water; it helps your mouth’s natural flow of saliva.
- Avoid bad oral habits – Smoking and using tobacco products can cause all sorts of health issues, many of which relate to your mouth! Not to mention, this can also lead to unfavorable veneer staining.
Your veneers won’t make your teeth impervious to cavities; but if you take great care of them, they’re certain to enhance your smile! If you have any questions about how to maintain your smile with veneers and prevent cavities, don’t hesitate to speak with your dentist.
About the Practice
The team at Pelican Landing Dental is honored to serve patients and families in the Bonita Springs, FL area. The practice is pleased to offer a wide range of available services including cosmetic options like porcelain veneers. If you have any questions about porcelain veneers or would like to schedule an appointment, you can contact the practice online or over the phone for assistance: (239) 948-2111.