Veneers are a popular solution for transforming your smile by covering dental imperfections like stains, chips, and small misalignments. This can drastically enhance your smile so that you can be confident once more. But can veneers also provide protection against tooth decay?
If you want to learn more about dental veneers and their susceptibility to cavities, continue reading.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Veneers are thin cosmetic shells typically crafted from dental porcelain or ceramic. They are bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth to improve their appearance. These shells can be customized to provide a specific look and can even restore some function to your bite by restoring their shape.
Can Dental Veneers Protect Against Cavities?
The shells of veneers are highly stain-resistant and non-porous meaning that they don’t absorb bacteria from plaque. This means that veneers themselves cannot get cavities. However, the teeth they are adhered to are still vulnerable.
Cavities are caused by the bacteria in plaque. As you eat, a film develops over the surface of your teeth. This film can stick to the exposed surface of your teeth. Once there, its sole purpose is to eat the leftover particles from your food and multiply.
This causes the plaque to begin producing acid to make your mouth a better home to live in. Soon, the acid wears away the enamel of your teeth, leaving behind tiny pits.
What Is the Best Way to Prevent Cavities?
To prevent cavities on the rest of your teeth, you’ll need to start and adhere to an oral hygiene routine.
- Brush your teeth twice daily; in the morning and before bed.
- Floss between each tooth at least once per day
- Use an antibacterial mouth rinse as directed
These are three very easy steps you can take to prevent cavities from forming in the first place. While your dental veneers will keep your teeth looking great, you need to ensure that the teeth underneath are healthy. Regular checkups with your dentist at least twice a year will help prevent problems before they start.
So, love your teeth and take care of them. Your veneers will last a long time as long as your dental hygiene is in check. While veneers can’t prevent cavities, they can provide some peace of mind that you won’t have to worry about them sneaking into your smile.
About the Practice
At Miller & Wolf Family Dentistry, their expert team of friendly and talented dental professionals is ready to help you achieve your dream smile. Their warm and welcoming staff are dedicated to helping you relax and providing a safe and hospitable environment for all of your treatment. To schedule an appointment, call (434) 324-8241 or visit the website to explore all of their services.