Veneers are a popular cosmetic procedure because they address many imperfections at once without needing extensive dental work. They cover the front surfaces of your teeth to improve their color, size, and shape. Although they create a barrier over your enamel, that doesn’t mean you can stop brushing your teeth. Veneers can’t get cavities, but your underlying and surrounding teeth are still vulnerable to decay. Here’s why you need to know to keep your smile cavity-free to get the most from your veneers.
How Do Veneers Work?
A veneer is a thin porcelain shell that’s bonded to the front side of a tooth. This allows it to cover several imperfections, like stains, chips, and gaps. Your teeth will be straight, proportionate, and white using a minimally invasive method.
Cavities are Still Possible
Veneers can’t decay, but your exposed enamel can still develop cavities. Decay can also occur underneath your veneers, making them difficult to detect. You may not know there’s an issue until it turns into a big problem, like a toothache or an infection. Ultimately, cavities can cause your veneers to fail and put you at risk of tooth loss.
Promote a Cavity-Free Smile
With 92% of adults experiencing decay, it’s important to be proactive about preventing cavities. Your oral health and the lifespan of your restorations rely on it. You can keep tooth decay at bay by following a few tips:
- Brush Your Teeth: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes. Use non-abrasive dental products to prevent scratching your veneers.
- Floss Every Day: Your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere in your mouth. Floss daily to remove trapped food residue and plaque.
- Watch What You Eat: Limit your consumption of sugars and starches, which feed cavity-causing bacteria. It’s also best to avoid hard or sticky food to prevent damaging your veneers.
- Visit Your Dentist: Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll keep your teeth and gums healthy to ensure your veneers last for a decade or longer.
You can rest easy knowing your teeth are in great shape by giving them the attention they deserve. Good oral hygiene, a nutritious diet, and regular dental care will ensure your picture-perfect smile lasts for years.
About Dr. Nabeel Ahmed
Dr. Ahmed earned his dental degree from the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry at Western University and has regularly continued his education in many specialties, including root canals, veneers, and sedation. He strives to create healthy, beautiful smiles that last for a lifetime. Request an appointment through his website or call (647) 492-8791.