With a set of porcelain veneers, you can overcome common smile flaws like gaps, slight misalignment and crowding, chips and stains. The thin porcelain shells are custom designed to match the shape, color and size of your other teeth, but how far do the benefits extend? Are you immune to developing a porcelain veneer cavity? To find out, continue reading.
How Porcelain Veneer Placement Affects Your Teeth
To be eligible for a set of porcelain veneers, your dentist will first perform a thorough examination to check for any existing tooth or gum decay. If any is spotted, you’ll need to undergo restorative care before proceeding with having your smile upgraded. This may involve having a cavity filled or oral bacteria removed.
Once this part of the procedure is taken care of, the process of having the veneers placed can begin. One of the perks of having veneers placed is that they are highly resistant to staining, but that shouldn’t be confused with them making your teeth infallible to tooth decay.
The Ever-Present Threat of Oral Bacteria
The first thing to know about oral bacteria is that they are always present in your mouth. However, when you consume food or any beverages other than water, the microorganisms flock to where any leftover particles remain so they can feed. In the absence of proper oral hygiene, which should include brushing and flossing at least two times a day, the bacteria can begin to exponentially multiple.
Unfortunately, veneers can’t inhibit this process. Therefore, underneath them, a cavity can quietly develop and eventually cause serious problems, including tarnishing the appearance of your smile.
Other Contributors to Veneer Cavities
Here are some of the other reasons that cavities can develop beneath a set of veneers:
- Improperly installed veneers that leave the tooth vulnerable to decay
- Oral health issues that were never properly addressed before the veneers were placed
- Taking medications that contribute to dry mouth or a suppressed immune system
How to Protect Your Smile
The simplest way to protect your veneers and maintain an attractive smile is to practice rigorous oral hygiene habits. You should also make it a priority to visit your cosmetic dentist in Oklahoma City every six months for checkups and cleanings. Additionally, it’s important that you comply with all the post-procedure instructions so that your veneers can remain intact, and to prevent your enamel being exposed to the harsh environment inside your mouth.
By taking a few precautions and remaining diligent in your efforts, your gorgeous smile can last for many years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Don Swearingen is a graduate of the Oklahoma University College of Dentistry. Throughout his over 30-year career, his commitment to excellence has never wavered. Thus, to stay abreast of the latest breakthroughs and advancements in aesthetic dental care, Dr. Swearingen maintains professional affiliation with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He takes a compassionate and artistic approach to enhancing his patients’ smiles and lives at his private practice, and he can be reached for more information through his website.