Veneers allow patients to make multiple improvements to their smiles at once. However, it is important to be aware that while the tooth is covered up, cavities can still form. As such, maintaining your veneers should also involve taking steps to prevent tooth decay. The following post covers essential information regarding cavities beneath veneers, including how to avoid them.
Do Veneers Offer Any Protection Against Decay?
Unlike a dental crown, a veneer only covers the front part of the tooth. That means that harmful bacteria can still build up on the side or the back of the enamel. As such, it is entirely possible for cavities to form on the exposed parts of the tooth. In some cases, bacteria might even slip under the veneer and cause decay in the covered area.
Consequently, veneers do very little to decrease the risk of tooth decay. Even worse, if a cavity is not treated in time, the tooth in question eventually may not even be strong enough to support the veneer anymore. In the worst-case scenario, decay might reach the point where root canal therapy or extraction is required.
How to Avoid Cavities with Veneers
A dentist in Aurora can provide advice for protecting the teeth after veneers have been placed. In many ways, it is not much different from how most people take care of their teeth without veneers. The main difference is that since veneers cover part of the tooth, especially close attention has to be paid to the areas that are still exposed.
Some important steps that all patients should follow include:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day, flossing at least once daily, and rinsing regularly with an ADA-approved mouthwash can all significantly reduce the risk of decay by getting rid of harmful, cavity-causing bacteria.
- Regular Checkups: A dentist can check for any warning signs of tooth decay that the patient might have missed. They can confirm whether the tooth supporting the veneer is still healthy. If any signs of cavities are found, they can offer a variety of solutions to prevent the issue from becoming any more severe.
- A Healthy Diet: Foods that contain high levels of sugar or starch can significantly increase the risk of cavities and put veneers at risk. Alternatives that are better for oral health include leafy greens, lean meat, low-fat dairy products, and crunchy fruits and vegetables.
Being proactive in taking care of veneers and teeth is essential for making sure that they last for as long as possible. Patients should voice any concerns they have about oral hygiene at the beginning of the cosmetic process. That way, they will be better prepared to protect their new smiles for the long term.
About Grand Dental – Wilmington
At Grand Dental – Wilmington, we offer fully personalized, comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages. If you have been looking for ways to improve the appearance of your smile, we can use fully customized veneers to make multiple corrections at once. If you’d like to schedule a cosmetic consultation or a preventive checkup, visit our website or call (815) 476-6755.