Will Veneers Prevent Cavities?

So you’ve just had veneers added to your smile, and you’re feeling like a million bucks. You feel invincible, like no cavities could ever get to you. Right? Not so fast! Learn more here about how you can still get cavities even with your cosmetic upgrade.

What are Cavities Anyway?

The plaque that coats teeth can harden into tartar and eat away at the enamel of a tooth, eventually forming a tiny hole or opening. This all takes place beneath the veneer and should not be ignored simply because the teeth are covered by the porcelain material.

Can I Still Get Cavities Even Though I Wear Veneers?

In short, yes. Veneers don’t suffer from decay, but teeth do.

Veneers themselves cannot form cavities as they’re made of strong ceramic material, but the teeth that are covered by them absolutely can. Porcelain veneers are attached to the front of the teeth, but not the sides or back.

Furthermore, because only the front-facing teeth are outfitted during this procedure as they are seen more when smiling or talking, the back molars are still susceptible.

How Do I Protect My Cosmetic Investment?

You protect veneers pretty much the same way you protect your teeth.

There are several important methods to stopping cavities and keeping your new movie star smile brilliant:

• Daily brushing and flossing: An at-home oral hygiene regimen is the first line of defense against cavities forming. Brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day, in addition to flossing between your teeth once daily, will prevent plaque from building up and causing tooth decay.
• Biannual trips to the dentist: You should visit your local dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. During your checkup, your dentist can examine your teeth and let you know if you have any cavities or other issues flaring up.
• Watch your diet: Be sure to drink plenty of water to keep production of saliva optimal as it neutralizes the acid that eats away at tooth enamel and carries away food debris and bacteria. Avoid excessive sugar and starch intake as they can contribute to cavities and tooth decay by fueling the bacteria in your mouth that produce acid.
• Wearing a mouthguard: Maybe you play sports or you’re a nighttime teeth-grinder. Dentists can provide their patients with custom-fitted mouthguards to protect expensive additions like porcelain veneers.

Veneers don’t magically protect your teeth, so be sure to practice smart, consistent dental hygiene and visit your dentist twice a year for cleanings and checkups.

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Capehart and his team at Capehart Dental in Lewisville can help you keep your veneers clean and cavity-free. A member of the American Dental Association and the Dallas County Dental Society, Dr. Capehart was in the top 10 percent of his graduating dental class at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. In addition to cosmetic dentistry, Capehart Dental offers emergency, preventive, family, and restorative services as well. Whether it’s an emergency for a cracked tooth or just a routine cleaning, call Capehart Dental to make your appointment today at (972) 436-1325 or visit them online.