Veneers are one of the most transformative cosmetic dental treatments available, and once you have them, it’s tempting to think your smile is basically bulletproof. But while they’re kind of like armor for your teeth, they still have openings that bacteria can exploit. Understanding how can help you protect both your investment and your oral health. Keep reading to learn how teeth with veneers can still get cavities.
What Are Veneers Made of and What Do They Cover?
Porcelain veneers are made from a hard, durable, treated ceramic that naturally resists acids and stains. Each treated tooth receives its own veneer, and the shell hides the front of the tooth and a small amount of each side. Because the enhancements are non-porous, they don’t absorb bacteria that can cause decay. So, the veneers themselves are cavity-proof, but everything else around them is not.
Where Cavities Still Happen
The back of your tooth, the sides, the gumline, and the edges where the veneer meets the tooth are all areas where plaque can accumulate, and decay can develop. If bacteria work their way beneath the veneer, the damage can be significant and complicated to treat.
Any teeth adjacent to your veneers are also just as susceptible to decay as they’ve always been. Veneers change how your smile looks, but they, unfortunately, don’t change the biology of your mouth.
What Happens If Decay Develops Under a Veneer?
Decay beneath a veneer often goes unnoticed longer than a typical cavity because it’s hidden from view. This is one of the reasons routine checkups and X-rays are still just as important after getting veneers as they were before. Your dentist can watch the health of the teeth beneath your restorations and catch any changes early.
How to Protect Your Smile
If you’re worried about cavities ruining your investment, don’t be! Keeping your veneers and your natural teeth healthy is simple. Brushing twice a day, flossing, avoiding excessive snacking, and going to regular dental visits—the same habits that protect natural teeth—work just as well for veneers.
These enhancements are a fantastic investment in your smile, but only if you care for them properly! As long as you show them the attention they deserve, they can last fifteen years or more. Protecting the teeth beneath them is what makes that lifespan possible.
About The Practice
At Belmont Family Dentistry, our team offers custom porcelain restorations as well as comprehensive preventive care to help patients maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. Whether you’re considering veneers or want to protect the ones you already have, we’re happy to help. Contact our talented team at (503) 234-1218—we can’t wait to see you!