Over time, porcelain veneers have advanced a lot to become the cosmetic treatment that we are familiar with today. Initially created for Hollywood celebrities’ smiles when they were filming movies on set, now more accessible to many, they enhance teeth appearance. Despite their cosmetic benefits, a common question lingers: Can veneers prevent cavities? Keep reading to learn if tooth decay remains a worry with this treatment.
Can You Still Get Cavities with Veneers?
Veneers are thin porcelain shells designed to skillfully cover the front of a tooth, made from top-quality dental-grade materials. Despite being different from natural teeth, it’s crucial to understand that the tooth underneath could still be prone to decay. Neglecting proper oral hygiene, such as not brushing for twice a day and skipping nightly flossing, is commonly cited as a major factor in cavity formation.
Moreover, consuming excessive sugary, acidic, or starchy foods and beverages can significantly increase the risk of decay. If a cavity does occur in a tooth with a veneer, dental treatment is necessary.
Removing the veneer is essential for administering proper treatment to the underlying tooth. This underscores the importance of maintaining comprehensive oral care routines to safeguard both natural teeth and those enhanced with veneers.
4 Tips for Maintaining Your Veneers
Keeping your veneers cavity-free requires prioritizing your oral care routine with a few simple yet crucial steps:
- Be mindful of your diet: Be cautious when enjoying hard or sticky foods such as crunchy bread, taffy, and peanut brittle, as they can potentially harm or loosen your veneers. It’s advisable to steer clear of these foods entirely to maintain the durability of your veneers.
- Break unhealthy habits: Avoid using your teeth for activities like opening bottles, smoking, chewing ice, and excessive alcohol consumption. These behaviors can jeopardize both your veneers and the underlying teeth, potentially leading to damage.
- Practice good oral hygiene: To safeguard your enamel, brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes each session using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups: Arrange dental visits biannually to allow your dentist to examine for cavities and other oral health issues, and to receive cleanings to maintain hygiene.
Ensuring the longevity and vitality of your veneers entails adopting mindful habits and steering clear of potential hazards. By incorporating the recommendations outlined above into your daily routine, you not only safeguard your veneers but also contribute to the long-term health and beauty of your smile!
About the Practice
At Biologic Dentistry, we specialize in providing porcelain veneers to enhance your smile. With our experience, you can trust that your smile is in capable hands. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering exceptional treatments and ensuring outstanding experiences for our patients. Whether you’re looking to correct imperfections or achieve a dazzling smile, our skilled team is here to help. If you are ready to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our porcelain veneer treatments, contact Biologic Dentistry at (770) 426-9994 or visit their website.