Can Veneers Get Cavities?

Veneers are an amazing way to fix minor dental issues. If you are dealing with badly stained teeth, cracks, chips, uneven teeth, or gapped teeth, these thin shells can mask them and give you a perfect smile. 

One question we get asked often is how careful you need to be about your oral hygiene if you have veneers. After all, they are synthetic and don't get stained or decayed, right? 

Well, there's more to this story. 

Here's what you need to know. 

Veneers Can't Get Cavities, But… 

Because they are made of synthetic materials like porcelain or composite resin, veneers per se can't get cavities. However, you need to keep in mind that they are bonded to your natural teeth and those can get decayed. 

Before putting the veneers on, Dr. Alexander Cox will remove a small amount of enamel to give your teeth a rougher texture and make the veneers easier to adhere to your teeth. Then, he will bond the veneers to your teeth. Although the veneers will seemingly bind with your teeth, there's still a small gap there that can act as an entry point for bacteria. If you neglect your oral hygiene, bacteria will accumulate at the bonding between the veneers and your natural teeth and find their way under. This can lead to various dental issues like cavities or gum disease. 

What If I Get Cavities While Wearing Veneers 

If you do get cavities, Dr. Alexander Cox will try to clean the decay without removing the veneers. However, that's not always possible and more often than not, he will have to remove the veneers to access the decayed area and clean it. 

After your teeth are cavity-free, he will place a new set of veneers. 

Taking Care of Your Veneers Is Easy 

Taking care of veneers doesn't require any special effort. In fact, it's as easy as maintaining your regular oral hygiene. Here are some simple tips that will ensure both your veneers and natural teeth will stay healthy:

• Brush your teeth after every meal or at least twice a day. 
• Floss every night to remove any stubborn food debris from between your teeth 
• Go to regular dental check-ups and visits to monitor the health of your teeth and veneers 
• Don't use your teeth as tools as you can risk damaging the veneers 
• Limit the consumption of staining foods and beverages and drink a tall glass of tap water after having them
• Drink your coffee through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth and avoid staining 
• Wear a mouthguard during sports and a nightguard if you grind your teeth. 

Call Scarsdale Smiles to Learn More About Veneers 

Are you curious about veneers and would like to find out if they are right for you? The team at Scarsdale Smiles can help you find out the answer. 

Get in touch with us now to book your appointment with Scarsdale dentist Dr. Alexander Cox.