Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments today. They transform smiles by covering imperfections like chips, stains, or gaps with thin, natural-looking shells of porcelain.
Porcelain is strong, smooth, and resistant to staining; many people believe that it is also resistant to cavities. Let’s talk more about this!
Can Cavities Develop Under Porcelain Veneers?
While porcelain material itself is resistant to stains and cavities, your tooth beneath is not. It still carries the chances of developing a cavity and decay if not taken proper care of.
So, protecting the tooth under the veneer is just as important as protecting your natural teeth!
Why Cavities Can Still Happen Under Veneers
Veneers are thin shells that sit on top of your natural teeth. Here are some reasons why cavities can still develop under veneers:
- If the veneer is not bonded properly, tiny gaps can form where bacteria sneak in – developing cavities.
- Over the years, the bond can weaken or small cracks can appear, creating entry points for decay.
- Skipping brushing or flossing allows plaque to gather around the edges of the veneer.
- Sugary snacks and drinks feed bacteria, contributing to the development of cavities under veneers.
- Saliva reduction due to dry mouth can result in cavities.
Veneers only cover your front tooth – the back, chewing surfaces, and spaces between teeth remain fully exposed to decay if you don’t maintain them.
How to Prevent Cavities Under Veneers
The good news is that cavities under veneers are preventable. Here is how:
- Use fluoride toothpaste and brush twice daily
- Floss daily after every meal to remove buildup
- Whitening or abrasive pastes can scratch veneers and wear away surrounding enamel
- Professional cleanings and checkups every six months allow your dentist to monitor the veneers and catch early problems
- Limit sodas, candies, and sugary snacks to reduce cavity risk
- If you have a dry mouth, ask your dentist about rinses, fluoride treatments, or sugar-free gum to reduce the risk of cavities
What If a Cavity Develops Under a Veneer?
If decay does form beneath a veneer, your dentist will need to remove the veneer to treat the tooth. After cleaning out the cavity and restoring the tooth, a new veneer can usually be placed.
In more serious cases where the decay is large or the tooth structure is weakened, you might need additional treatments such as a dental crown or even a root canal. If you sense any pain or sensitivity in the tooth, it is best to seek medical help right away. Severe cases may result in complete tooth loss.
Final Thoughts
Porcelain veneers themselves don’t decay, but the natural teeth underneath and around them remain vulnerable. In order to reduce the risk of cavities, brush twice daily, floss, eat a balanced diet, and see your dentist regularly.
Get your porcelain veneers and learn about proper aftercare from our expert team at Houston Dental Implant & Cosmetic Center, or call us at (713) 664-1661 to schedule a visit.