Think of veneers as costumes for your teeth. They hide an array of cosmetic tooth defects, from discoloration and gaps to cracks. After receiving veneers, many dental patients believe they’ll no longer get cavities in those teeth. But is that just a myth? Can you get cavities with veneers?
Learn the answer below, then call Mark L. Civin, D.D.S., to learn more about our porcelain veneers in Palm Beach Gardens.
Tooth Decay Explained
How do cavities form in the first place? Cavities are the result of plaque buildup on teeth. If not removed through daily brushing and flossing, this plaque will eventually harden into tartar, making it even harder to get rid of.
Over time, plaque strips the minerals from tooth enamel, causing tiny holes, which are the beginnings of a cavity. At this point, you might notice small black or brown spots on your teeth, but you may not yet feel pain.
If left unaddressed, bacteria can penetrate the next layer of the tooth, called dentin, which is connected to tooth nerves. You may feel a sharp sting when you eat something cold, sugary, or acidic.
Most dental patients have a cavity filled promptly. If they don’t, the tooth can become infected, causing severe pain. A dentist may need to perform a root canal or even pull the tooth.
Will You Have To Worry About Tooth Decay After Getting Veneers?
So, can you get cavities with veneers? Dental veneers are made of porcelain and ceramic, so you can’t get cavities in a veneer itself. However, you can get cavities in the tooth underneath the veneer. Veneers only cover the front of teeth, leaving the rest exposed. Without good brushing habits, you can get cavities in these teeth.
Patients with poorly fitted veneers are more prone to cavities as well. There should not be any gaps between the veneers and the surface of your teeth. If there are, bacteria can easily get trapped and will be nearly impossible to remove through brushing.
Some people get cavities because they weren’t good candidates for veneers in the first place. A reputable dentist will not install veneers on weak or actively decaying teeth.
Lastly, certain medications can increase the chance of you getting cavities with veneers. Some drugs cause dry mouth as a side effect. Dry mouth increases tooth decay risk because saliva helps keep cavity-causing bacteria in check.
How To Prevent Cavities With Veneers
Can you get cavities with veneers? Yes, but just because you have veneers doesn’t mean cavities are inevitable. Follow this expert advice to keep tooth decay at bay:
- Brush your teeth at least twice daily for two to three minutes per session. Use a fluoride toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
- Floss daily to remove food particles that can get stuck between the gaps in your teeth. If you dislike using traditional string floss, try floss picks. They feature a plastic handle that makes it easier to get into tight spaces.
- Cut back on sugary treats, soda in particular. Sugar is like an all-you-can-eat buffet for bacteria.
- Stay hydrated to encourage saliva production in your mouth. Regularly having a dry mouth can contribute to cavities. And if you use cigarettes, vapes, or chewing tobacco, try to quit. All types of tobacco can cause dry mouth.
- Visit Mark L. Civin, D.D.S., for a cleaning and checkup every six months. During a cleaning, a hygienist thoroughly inspects your teeth for cavities.
Trust Mark L. Civin, D.D.S., for All Your Oral Health Needs
Can you get cavities with veneers? Without good dental hygiene, yes. This is why it’s so important to brush, floss, and see your dentist for regular cleanings.
Ready to schedule your cleaning or learn about our veneers for crooked teeth? Reach out to Mark L. Civin, D.D.S., at (561) 624-2224 to schedule your appointment. We proudly serve clients in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, and nearby cities.
