Veneers are an investment in your smile, and maintaining the health of teeth with veneers protects that investment. A common question we hear is if you can get cavities on veneers.
A veneer is a piece of thin porcelain attached to the tooth. Therefore, the veneer itself cannot become infected. Yet, the tooth the veneer attaches to can develop a cavity. If you suspect you have a cavity, you should schedule a visit with your dentist.
How Does a Veneered Tooth Develop a Cavity?
Several things can contribute to the development of cavities on teeth with veneers.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – A cavity may form when we don’t care for our teeth. To avoid tooth decay, brush and floss daily. Also, schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups.
- Improper Application – If the veneer is not applied correctly to the tooth, decay can occur. Work with a dentist experienced with veneers and dedicated to the highest standards of care. A properly applied veneer will last longer and protect your teeth better.
- Old or Worn – When a veneer becomes chipped or loose, food particles and bacteria can stick between the veneer and the tooth. Over time, a cavity can develop. Veneers typically last around 10 years. As your veneers age, ask your dentist whether you need a replacement.
What To Do With a Decayed Veneer?
If the tooth the veneer attaches to becomes decayed, your dentist can help. You want to act quickly to avoid further decay. The outcome can improve when you address the issue quickly.
A cavity doesn’t mean you will have to replace the veneer. Depending on the location of the cavity, the dentist may be able to fill the tooth without removing the veneer.
If the cavity is due to a damaged or loose veneer, the dentist will likely remove the veneer before filling the tooth. After removing the decay and filling the tooth, the dentist can apply a new veneer.
If the decay is too extensive, the dentist may need to do a root canal and place a crown on the tooth. In this case, the crown would replace the veneer. If the tooth cannot be saved due to severe decay, the tooth may require an extraction. Then, a dental implant could replace the extracted tooth.
Regardless of the level of decay, our expert dental team has the option to restore the appearance and function of your teeth.
Check out our pros and cons of Veneers!
What Can You Do to Prevent Cavities in Teeth with Veneers?
Prevent problems before they start with good habits. Plus, there is always time to implement healthy habits. Even if you have a cavity currently, you can take better care of your teeth going forward.
- Brush with Care – Use non-abrasive toothpaste. And brush the edges of the veneers exceptionally well. Be gentle but thorough in your brushing.
- Don’t Bite Hard Food or Objects – Veneers can become damaged if you bite on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy.
- Avoid Sticky and Acidic Foods – Like hard food, sticky foods can also damage veneers. Acidic foods can wear down the enamel on teeth which can also accelerate decay.
- Wear a Mouthguard – If you clench or grind your teeth during sleep, a mouthguard can help prevent damage to your veneers and other teeth.
- Schedule Regular Checkups – Dental cleanings and checkups allow your dentist to identify issues early. Whether you need to replace a damaged veneer or fill a cavity, early intervention keeps your teeth healthier.
We Care About Your Teeth
At Atlanta Smiles, our team cares about you and your smile. We want you to live a full, vibrant, and confident life. That starts with health! Contact us today to schedule an appointment for dental care.