Understanding Veneers and Cavity Risk
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of teeth, enhancing their appearance. While they create a new outer layer for your smile, many wonder if veneers offer complete protection against tooth decay. Teeth covered by veneers can still develop cavities.
How Cavities Form with Veneers
Veneers typically cover only the front and sometimes a portion of the sides of a tooth, leaving other areas exposed. The back surfaces, areas between teeth, and especially the margins where the veneer meets the natural tooth remain susceptible to bacterial activity. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, can accumulate in these uncovered areas, leading to demineralization of the enamel.
The natural tooth material underneath the veneer, including enamel and dentin, is also vulnerable to decay. If bacteria and their acidic byproducts penetrate the seal between the veneer and the tooth, decay can begin beneath the restoration. This can occur if the bond weakens or if microscopic gaps form at the veneer margins, allowing oral bacteria to enter. Such decay can compromise the tooth’s integrity and potentially the veneer itself.
Preventing Cavities with Veneers
Maintaining diligent oral hygiene is important for preventing cavities on veneered teeth. Regular brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque and food debris from all tooth surfaces, including those not covered by veneers. Brushing twice daily for at least two minutes provides a foundational defense against decay. Flossing every day is also necessary, as it cleans tight spaces between teeth and along the gumline, areas where plaque often accumulates and veneers do not extend.
Beyond daily cleaning, dietary choices also play a significant role in cavity prevention. Limiting sugary foods and acidic drinks reduces the fuel available for decay-causing bacteria. Frequent snacking on carbohydrates provides a continuous food source for these bacteria, increasing the risk of acid attacks on tooth enamel. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, typically twice a year, are also important. These visits allow dentists to identify and address potential issues early.
Addressing Cavities with Veneers
Should a cavity develop on a tooth with a veneer, early detection is important for effective treatment. Regular dental examinations, which often include X-rays, help dentists identify decay not visible to the naked eye. The approach to treating the cavity depends on its location and extent relative to the veneer.
If decay is small and located at the veneer’s margin or on an exposed surface, it may be possible to remove the decayed portion and place a small filling without disturbing the entire veneer. However, if the cavity is more extensive or located directly underneath the veneer, it often needs careful removal to allow the dentist to access and treat the decay. After the cavity is cleaned and filled, a new veneer may be fabricated and bonded to the tooth.