Can Veneers Get Cavities? – A Complete Guide

If you have spent a lot of time, effort, and money restoring your smile with veneers, then it makes absolute sense that you want the restoration to last as long as possible. 

Veneers have surged in popularity for their ability to hide imperfections like tooth chips or tooth stains. They have the power to bestow upon patients a flawless, Hollywood-worthy grin. Millions of people now opt for veneers to achieve the smile of their dreams.

Yet, amidst the hoopla surrounding veneers and their transformative capabilities, an important question lingers in the minds of many: Can veneers get cavities? 

Join us as we unravel the intricacies of veneers and their relationship to cavities so you can navigate your journey to a beautiful smile with confidence and clarity.  

Let’s uncover the truth behind the question: Can veneers get cavities?

What are Veneers?

Veneers are delicate, paper-thin shells made from either porcelain or composite resin. They are customized to fit over the front surface of teeth to improve and enhance your smile. 

Whether you wish to brighten discolored teeth, correct minor misalignments, or reshape irregularly shaped teeth, veneers offer a minimally invasive option for achieving desired cosmetic improvements. 

The Cavity Conundrum: Can Veneers Get Cavities?

Now, coming to the actual question: can veneers get cavities? 

The answer to this is fairly simple – Dental veneers themselves cannot develop cavities. 

Veneers are typically made from materials like porcelain or composite resin. The materials used in veneers are not organic and do not provide a suitable environment for bacteria to thrive. 

However, the tooth underneath the veneers is composed of mineralized tissue that can be eroded by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and eventually decay. 

How Come Your Tooth Can Get Cavities Despite Veneers?

Whether you have veneers currently or are planning to get them in the future, it is important for you to understand that veneers only cover the front surface of your tooth. They do not seal your tooth completely from the oral environment. 

This means that the edges of the veneers can still be open to plaque buildup on the exposed areas of the teeth, especially around the area where the veneers meet the natural tooth enamel.  Over time, this plaque buildup can lead to the formation of cavities in the underlying tooth structure.

How Can You Prevent Cavities with Veneers?

Dental restorations, while highly convenient, can be a pool for plaque and bacteria. That is why it is important to know how to care for your teeth after getting a dental treatment like veneers. 

Brush & Floss Regularly

Clean your teeth and veneers twice a day with the help of fluoride toothpaste and floss to remove plaque and food particles. Pay special attention to the areas where the veneers meet the natural tooth enamel to ensure thorough cleaning.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Choose a fluoride toothpaste and consider using a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen tooth enamel and provide protection against decay. 

Regular Dental Check-ups

Schedule routine dental visits for professional cleanings and examinations. Your dentist can monitor the health of your veneers and underlying teeth and detect any issues early.

Avoid Excessive Sugar Consumption

Limit your intake of sugary foods and beverages; they are major contributors to cavity formation. Opt for healthier snacks and drinks, and rinse your mouth with water after consuming sugary items.

Wear a Mouthguard

If you grind your teeth at night or participate in contact sports, wear a mouthguard to protect your veneers and underlying teeth from damage. You can contact your dentist, who will provide you with a custom-fitted mouthguard for the best protection.

Quit Smoking

Smoking inherently increases the risk of gum disease and decay. This can potentially compromise the health of your veneers and natural teeth. So, quit smoking and improve your oral health and overall well-being.

When to Seek Medical Advice if You Have Cavities with Veneers

Cavities with veneers can become a dental issue when they compromise the integrity of the underlying tooth structure or affect the appearance and function of the veneers. 

Here are some cases in which you should seek medical advice if you are suffering from cavities and have veneers. 

• Tooth Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages can indicate that a cavity has developed beneath a veneer. This sensitivity may be localized around the veneer or affect the entire tooth.
• Visible Changes in Veneer Appearance: Discoloration, staining, or changes in the veneer's appearance may indicate decay underneath and require professional intervention.
• Pain or Discomfort: Consistent pain or discomfort in the tooth or surrounding gums can be a sign of advanced decay. This may be accompanied by swelling, redness, or tenderness in the gums.
• Loose Veneer: If a veneer becomes loose or dislodged, it may indicate decay or damage to the underlying tooth structure that should be addressed promptly to prevent further complications.

How Can Your Dentist Treat Cavities Under Veneers?

Treatment approaches usually depend on the severity and location of the cavity, as well as the condition of the veneer and underlying tooth structure.

Your dentist may suggest any of the following treatments if you suffer from cavities under your veneers. 

Veneer Removal & Replacement

If your cavity extends beneath the veneer, the veneer may need to be carefully removed to access and treat the decayed tooth structure. Once the cavity is addressed, your dentist can fix a new veneer to restore the appearance and function of your tooth.

Composite Bonding

If your cavity is fairly small and localized, your dentist may be able to repair the affected area using dental bonding by applying a tooth-colored composite material to fill the cavity. The composite resin will then be shaped and polished to blend with the surrounding tooth structure and veneer.

Dental Fillings

Your dentist might suggest using traditional dental fillings if the cavity affects the larger part of the tooth. By filling the cavity with durable filling material and contouring it to match the shape of the tooth, your dentist can give you a beautiful, natural-looking result. 

Conclusion

While veneers themselves are resistant to decay, the underlying teeth to which they are bonded can still be susceptible to cavities if you do not maintain proper oral hygiene. 

Visiting your dentist is a crucial part of your dental regimen. Professional assessments and cleanings can go a long way in detecting tooth decay and addressing any dental issues. 

With proper care and attention, veneers can continue to enhance your teeth for years to come, allowing you to enjoy the confidence and satisfaction that comes with a beautiful, healthy smile.

Get Veneer Perfection & Cavity Protection at Cambridge Dental Group

Embrace your flawless new smile, worry-free and cavity-free! 

Schedule your consultation with Cambridge Dental Group today to get custom veneers and comprehensive cavity treatment services. 

Contact us now to take your first step towards a confident, beautiful smile!

FAQs

Do veneers stop tooth decay?

No, veneers cannot stop tooth decay. While veneers themselves are resistant to decay, they do not prevent the underlying teeth from developing cavities. 

What happens if you get a cavity with veneers?

Minor cavities may be treated by carefully removing the decayed area and using composite resin to fill the cavity. In cases where the cavity is more extensive, the veneer may need to be removed to properly treat the decay.