What Happens if You Get a Cavity with Veneers

Veneers, often utilized in cosmetic dentistry to craft a flawless smile, serve as a shield for the front of your teeth, concealing imperfections and aligning your appearance. Typically made from porcelain, veneers are durable and designed to mimic the natural look and strength of tooth enamel. However, they require meticulous care, as the natural tooth structure beneath needs to remain healthy to support them. While veneers themselves are resistant to decay, the remainder of your tooth is not, and poor oral hygiene can lead to cavities developing beneath the veneers.

dentist placing veneers on front teeth

Maintaining the health of your natural teeth with veneers is crucial, as this prevents the chance of tooth decay and damage. Regular cleaning habits, including brushing and flossing, are crucial to keep the underlying teeth in good condition. Professional cleanings can also help in maintaining both your veneers and natural teeth. If you find yourself with a cavity under a veneer or if you’re facing the removal of veneers, the tooth underneath might need special care or treatment to restore its health and ensure your confidence in your smile is unshaken.

Key Takeaways 

  • Veneers are a cosmetic solution that requires diligent oral hygiene to protect the underlying natural teeth.
  • Despite their resilience, veneers require regular professional and personal care to prevent tooth decay.
  • After veneer removal, the natural tooth may require restorative treatment to maintain a healthy, confident smile.

Understanding Veneers and Oral Care

Veneers can enhance your smile, but they require proper oral care to maintain their appearance and prevent underlying issues. Here’s how to keep up your dental hygiene and safeguard your veneers.

Maintaining Dental Hygiene with Veneers

When you have veneers, it’s essential to follow a regular oral hygiene routine that includes brushing twice a day and flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around the veneer margins where plaque tends to accumulate. Mouthwash can also aid in reducing bacteria that cause cavity formation and gum disease. Additionally, scheduling professional cleanings with your cosmetic dentist at least twice a year is crucial. These visits allow for the removal of plaque that you may miss during your home care routine.

Daily Oral Care:

  • Brush twice a day.
    Floss carefully to remove plaque.
  • Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.

Professional Care:

  • Professional dental check-ups twice a year.
  • Discuss any concerns with your dentist.

Preventing Damage to Veneers

While veneers are durable, they are not indestructible. Minimize eating hard foods and avoid using your teeth as tools (using your teeth to open bottles, envelopes, or plastic packages can crack or chip your teeth, chewing on hard objects such as hard candy, pens, and pencils may also chip or crack your teeth) to ensure the longevity of your ceramic or composite resin veneers. Limit exposure to staining foods and drinks to prevent discoloration. Refrain from habits like nail-biting or chewing on ice that can compromise the integrity of the bonding cement. If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, consider getting a protective mouthguard to shield your veneers from damage. Remember, although veneers cover the front surface of your teeth, the rest of your teeth can be decayed, thus proper care and a cautious lifestyle are important.

Avoid:

  • Hard and sticky foods.
  • Habits that can apply undue pressure or cause chipping.

Precautions:

  • Use of protective gear during sports.

Teeth after veneers removed

Removing veneers can sometimes lead to weakened tooth structure because a portion of your enamel may have been etched away to accommodate the veneers. Without their protective shield, natural teeth can become more likely to tooth decay and erosion. This post-procedural phase can result in tooth sensitivity and discoloration, making subsequent cosmetic dentistry treatments like crowns or dental implants necessary, should significant damage occur.

Dealing with Cavities and Veneers

After the veneers are removed, cavities under the veneers need to be addressed promptly. Good dental hygiene is crucial; you should brush and floss regularly to clean around the edges where veneers were placed. During your dental visits, a healthcare professional might discover cavities that were hidden beneath the veneers. Such issues can be addressed with treatments ranging from dental fillings to more permanent solutions if there is extensive decay leading to tooth loss. Regular consultations with your dentist will help monitor and maintain your oral health.

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