Do Veneers Prevent Cavities?

Veneers are thin composite caps placed on top of the teeth to improve appearance and protection. Though they cover and essentially protect the teeth they are placed on, can they prevent cavities? This blog will explore how cavities form, the veneers’ role, and whether they are connected. At Sandcreek Dental, we can help you improve your oral health through veneers or cavity prevention. 

How Do Cavities Form?

Cavities form in the teeth when plaque and bacteria build up over time without being removed. As the acid from bacteria sits on the teeth, it starts to eat away at the enamel. This erosion can cause small holes or openings in the teeth, which is the cavity forming. If not treated properly and quickly, the tooth will continue to decay, and the bacteria can reach the gums and dentin. 

The Main Function and Purpose of Veneers 

The main reason many people get veneers is to transform their smile and improve its appearance. Whether you experience discoloration, cracks, gaps, etc. in your teeth, veneers can help correct those things while still providing a natural look. In some cases, those who experience TMJ or teeth grinding can benefit from getting veneers. 

You can find out if veneers are the right fit for you by consulting with your dentist, who can look at your dental history, daily oral health practices, and other conditions, and give you an examination. If you choose to get veneers, they will custom-fit them to your teeth so you can feel comfortable and confident with your new smile. Even when you do get veneers, never forget: Your daily oral healthcare routine is the KEY to cavity prevention. 

Protection Vs. Prevention

Simply put, veneers do not prevent cavities and that is not the purpose they were made for. They can add some protection but shouldn’t be relied on to prevent cavities. 

Veneers themselves can’t get cavities because they don’t have enamel, but your actual teeth underneath can still be prone to them. Veneers can correct some of the damage that tooth decay brings and protect against chipping or discoloration, but they can’t stop a cavity from forming. 

Veneers still leave part of the tooth and gum exposed, making it possible for acids and bacteria to cling to them. Cavities can then form underneath veneers and should be treated urgently to maintain the health and strength of your teeth. 

Maintain a Good Oral Health Routine

The answer is to maintain a good oral routine daily, whether you have veneers or not. To keep your oral health in tip-top shape and prevent cavities from forming with veneers, make sure to:

• Brush Twice a Day: Brushing twice a day or after meals can ensure plaque isn’t getting that time to sit on the teeth. Consider a soft toothbrush that can be gentle on your veneers.
• Floss and Rinse Daily: Brushing alone can’t get bacteria out of the stubborn and hard-to-reach areas such as in between the teeth. Especially with veneers, these bacteria will cling onto the gums, making flossing and rinsing even more crucial. If regular flossing seems to be difficult and time-consuming with veneers, try a water flosser. 
• Avoid Sugary Foods and Tobacco: Sugar and tobacco products will eat at the enamel of your teeth. Try to avoid or limit these kinds of things that go into your mouth. 
• Visit the Dentist: Go to the dentist regularly for a professional cleaning and checkup to make sure everything is looking good and to stay on top of any issues if they arise. 

Come See Us at Sandcreek Dental 

If you are looking to get veneers for a smile makeover or need professional cleaning to mitigate cavities, we’ve got you covered. We can give you insights on how to best care for your smile and make sure your experience is nothing short of exceptional. Contact us today to gain a smile you can be confident in. And remember, treat your oral health well, whether you have veneers or not. Your daily oral healthcare routine is the KEY to cavity prevention.