Can You Get a Cavity on a Veneer?

Are you ready to invest the money and time needed to improve the appearance of your smile? If so, you will need to make every possible effort to ensure the results last as long as possible. If you choose to get porcelain veneers, it is important to take care of the teeth underneath your veneers. 

Veneers can help restore your smile. However, they might not provide comprehensive protection for your teeth. If you are thinking about getting veneers or have them already, you may be asking yourself several questions. These are:
 

• Do they stop tooth decay?
   

• Can they get cavities?
   

• Can your teeth develop cavities with veneers?

You need to consider these questions before and after getting dental veneers. 

What Are Dental Veneers?

These are custom-made, wafer-thin shells made of tooth-colored material. Dentists bond them to the front surface of a patient’s teeth to improve their appearance. They can help change the color, length, size, or shape of your teeth. 

There are different types of dental veneers. These include the ones made from porcelain and those made from resin composite materials. The former resists stains better than the latter. Also, their light-reflecting properties are like those of natural teeth. Before you choose the type of veneers you want to get, discuss your options with your dentist.

What Are Cavities?

The hard outer layer of your teeth is the tooth enamel. When it decays, cavities begin to form. The decay often results from bacteria and plaque in your mouth. You need to understand that plaque continuously forms on your teeth. 

Bacteria in the plaque produce acids that slowly break down enamel. If you fail to follow proper dental hygiene practices, these bacteria will remain on the plaque. The acids produced will then begin to create holes or cavities in your teeth.

You cannot prevent plaque from forming on your teeth. Fortunately, good oral hygiene practices can help get rid of plaque, preventing bacteria from eroding your tooth enamel. Good oral hygiene practices involve brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing every day, scheduling regular checkups with your dentist, and rinsing with mouthwash daily. 

Can Veneers Decay?

Dental veneers do not decay like natural teeth. They are artificial structures made of composite or porcelain materials. However, they will wear down and require replacing over time. Composite veneers can last for up to five years, while porcelain veneers can last for more than 15 years. 

The longevity of your dental veneers will depend on your oral hygiene and the material used. Also, they are liable to crack or chip like natural teeth. However, they cannot get cavities or decay like natural teeth. 

Can You Get Cavities With Veneers?

You can still get cavities even if you have veneers. Dental veneers cover the front part of the tooth. But plaque can still form on the back of the teeth, which can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Furthermore, veneers do not cover the gums. Bacteria can also build up along the gum line and lead to gum disease. Hence, good oral hygiene is still necessary. 

For more on dental veneers, visit kksmiles at our office in Marietta, Georgia. You can call 770-830-3700 today to schedule an appointment.