Can Veneers Get Cavities?

If you’re about to get veneers in Frisco, then you're likely excited to get a picture-perfect smile that’ll fuel your confidence in your appearance.

But you might also have lots of questions about how to maintain your new look. 

One of the most common questions patients have is how their oral hygiene routine should change after getting veneers and whether they can still develop dental problems like cavities with them.

Here’s the definitive answer:

First, Here’s How Veneers Work 

Veneers are thin shells that cover the front surface of the natural tooth. They are custom-made for each patient to match either the rest of their teeth (if only minor cosmetic corrections are needed) or their smile expectations (when the patient wants a more significant makeover). 

When getting them, a dentist will shave a bit of tooth enamel to create a rough surface texture. Veneers are then attached to the tooth using a special adhesive, and the rough surface allows them to bond to the tooth.

As a result, the veneer stays in place for years, allowing you to speak and eat normally.

Why Veneers Don’t Protect Your Teeth from Cavities

Veneers don’t cover the entire tooth like a dental crown would. This means that your natural teeth are still very much exposed to all the harmful bacteria and food particles that linger in the mouth after you eat.

Cavities form when bacteria that are already present in the mouth start feeding on these food particles. When eating, they release acids that slowly break down the tooth enamel, creating a cavity. This hole grows bigger and allows more bacteria to get inside the tooth, eventually leading to an infection if it’s not treated.

The veneer itself won’t get a cavity since it’s made of porcelain and doesn’t break down. But the natural tooth underneath can still develop a cavity.

How to Maintain Your Oral Health with Veneers 

Veneers are a cosmetic procedure, and they don’t protect your teeth from dental problems, nor is that their job.

It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene even after getting veneers to preserve your smile and keep your teeth healthy. Here are some tips that can help:

• Brush and floss your teeth daily
• Use fluoride products and drink tap water
• Don’t chew on hard objects
• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth
• Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables and limit sugar
• Don’t smoke or chew tobacco products
• Get routine dental cleanings and check-ups, etc.

Want Veneers? Find Out If You’re a Good Candidate

If you’d like to get veneers and change your smile’s look, Dr. Shahriela Ganjoor can help you discover if they’re the right procedure for you in just a short consultation.

To get started, request a visit to Modern Bite Dentistry online or call us at (214) 214-7790 to find out more about our services.