Can You Still Get Cavities with Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile. These thin shells of dental-grade porcelain are custom-made to fit over the front surface of your teeth, addressing issues like discoloration, chipping, or misalignment.

At Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates in Farmingdale, NY, Dr. Angela Ferrari gives patients a reason to smile again thanks to natural-looking porcelain veneers.

Many patients wonder if they can still get cavities after having porcelain veneers placed. Below, we'll look at the potential for tooth decay with veneers and provide tips for maintaining good oral hygiene to protect both your natural teeth and your veneers.

Can I still get cavities if I have porcelain veneers?

While porcelain veneers provide a durable and stain-resistant barrier, they don't make your teeth immune to cavities.

Veneers only cover the front surface of your teeth, leaving the sides and back of the teeth exposed to potential decay. Therefore, the tooth structure beneath the veneer remains susceptible to the buildup of plaque and bacteria that cause decay, especially if proper oral hygiene is not maintained.

In addition, the bonding material used to attach the veneer to your tooth can wear down or become damaged over time, allowing bacteria to infiltrate the space between the veneer and the tooth surface. The same thing can happen if your gums recede due to gum disease or other factors. Since veneers do not cover these root surfaces, cavities can develop in these areas.

How can I prevent cavities with porcelain veneers?

To protect your teeth from cavities and ensure the longevity of your veneers, it's necessary to follow oral hygiene practices, including:

• Regular brushing
• Daily flossing
• Routine dental checkups
• Avoiding certain foods
• Using fluoride

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, using non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush will help remove dental plaque and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria that can cause tooth decay. Flossing is crucial for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline, where your toothbrush might not reach. You'll want to be gentle when flossing around your veneers to avoid damaging the dental bonding that secures the veneer to your tooth.

Visiting Dr. Ferrari at Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates regularly for professional cleanings and checkups is beneficial for monitoring the health of your teeth and veneers as well as addressing any potential issues early on. If the tooth structure beneath the veneer is not adequately sealed, bacteria can accumulate and lead to decay under the veneer.

Consuming excessive amounts of sugary or acidic foods and beverages can contribute to tooth decay. Limit your intake of these items and rinse your mouth with water after consuming them to minimize their impact on your teeth. To strengthen tooth enamel, consider using fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash to protect against cavities.

In addition to hygiene and diet, you'll want to avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bite on hard objects. These actions can damage your veneers and increase the risk of tooth decay.

Get porcelain veneers in Farmingdale, NY

Although porcelain veneers offer a protective barrier for the front surface of your teeth, they do not encase the entire tooth, so teeth can still be susceptible to decay.

If you're considering porcelain veneers or have veneers and are concerned about tooth decay, it's important to schedule a checkup as soon as possible with Dr, Angela Ferrari at Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates in Farmingdale, NY.