It’s not often that patients do heavy research into the procedures they want to have. Many times, they’ll read something from dubious sources, not knowing fact from fiction. One common myth that has become widespread is that porcelain veneers can prevent cavities. But is this one true? Or is it completely made up? Read on to find out!
A Brief Overview of Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are hard, custom-made sheaths that cover the front surface of teeth. This can enhance their appearance by altering their size, shape, color, or length. First, a small amount of enamel is removed from the front of the tooth or teeth receiving the treatment.
Next, bonding cement is used to fuse the tooth with the porcelain shell, creating a seamless transition between the two. If done with multiple teeth, this treatment can be totally transformative, reshaping your smile for the better.
Can Veneers Prevent Cavities?
As the myth goes: once veneers are in place, your teeth can no longer get cavities. While it is true that porcelain veneers add a protective layer to the front side of the tooth, this myth doesn’t hold up under scrutiny.
The shells of veneers are highly resistant to staining and aren’t eroded by acid or bacteria the way that natural tooth enamel is. However, it’s important to note that only the front side of the tooth is covered. The back side is still completely exposed to the elements! This means that, despite having porcelain veneers, your teeth can still get cavities.
What Do Cavities Do to Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain can’t get cavities, but your natural teeth can, and that could cause your treatment to fail if left untreated. As you eat food, bacterial plaque begins to build up on your teeth and along the gumline. This bacteria feeds on the leftover food particles in your mouth and secretes acid that slowly wears away at your tooth enamel.
Once the acid has broken through, it forms a pit in the tooth—a cavity. Depending on the size and depth of the cavity, it can be remineralized by fluoride toothpaste or professional treatments. However, if it grows too large, it could erode the tooth under the veneer, causing it to fall off!
What Can I Do to Prevent Damage to My Porcelain Veneers?
Good oral hygiene is the key to keeping your veneers in place. So, to ensure the longevity of both your veneers and the underlying natural teeth, here are some tips:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day to remove plaque and bacteria from all tooth surfaces.
- Use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the veneers.
- Minimize the consumption of sugary foods and beverages, as they contribute to cavity formation.
While veneers can enhance the aesthetics of your smile, they do not provide immunity from cavities. Keep your oral hygiene in check and see your dentist when you can for healthy teeth—both natural and enhanced!
About the Practice
Ready for your own set of porcelain veneers? The dedicated dentists at Pasadena Family Dentistry can transform your smile with ease. They use state-of-the-art dental technology to make treatments of all kinds painless, efficient, and affordable. Call (713) 946-5171 to schedule a veneer consultation or visit the website to discover other services they offer.