Porcelain veneers are a common cosmetic option because they allow patients to enhance their smiles by correcting aesthetic flaws in their teeth. Because of this, they have become a staple for celebrities and anyone who is looking to upgrade their smile.
However, just because your veneers are made from porcelain does not mean that you are immune to tooth decay. Your teeth that support veneers can still develop cavities. Continue reading to learn how maintaining your veneers in Rancho Bernardo can help prevent such problems.
How Can Your Teeth with Veneers Get Cavities?
There are several reasons why a veneer-supporting tooth can develop cavities:
- Veneers only cover the front surface of the tooth. This means the back portion is not protected at all and is still just as vulnerable to tooth decay as it was before you had your veneers placed.
- Porcelain veneers cannot eliminate preexisting problems like decay or weakened enamel. Both issues can cause you to develop cavities easier.
- If a veneer is not placed properly or it has been cemented to your tooth for many years, bacteria and food particles can sneak behind your veneer and attack the natural surface of your tooth, leading to decay and other problems.
How You Can Fight Cavities By Maintaining Your Veneers
Even though veneers don’t keep you safe from developing cavities, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk. Here are just a few of them:
- Choose a skilled dentist: You want to pick a cosmetic dentist in Rancho Bernardo that is well experienced and has positive reviews from previous patients. By doing your research on the dentist you choose, you can significantly reduce your risk of something going wrong.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Don’t slack on your routine after you get veneers. Continue to brush twice and floss at least once every single day. Rinsing with mouthwash is another helpful step to prevent tooth decay.
- See your dentist: When you go to the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups, they will be able to ensure that your veneers are still looking good and there are no signs of decay. If there is existing decay and it is caught early enough, it can be treated before becoming a serious issue.
Porcelain veneers can give you a beautiful smile, but that doesn’t mean the threat of cavities goes away. By following these tips from your dentist in Rancho Bernardo, you can keep your teeth as healthy as they look.
About the Author
Dr. Nelson Howard earned his dental doctorate from UCLA, and he went on to become the first dentist in North San Diego County to become an accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). He’s a founding member of the West Coast Society for Cosmetic Dentistry. If you are interested in porcelain veneers, Dr. Howard is the dentist to count on. He can discuss maintaining your veneers during your consultation, which you can schedule on his website or by calling (858) 451-0550.