How To Prevent Cavities Under Veneers

How To Prevent Cavities Under Veneers from Johns Creek Dentistry in Johns Creek, GADental veneers are common restorations that are used to change the size, shape, or color of teeth. These can be made of porcelain or resin and are most commonly used on the front teeth. When these restorations are placed, there is a margin between the tooth and the porcelain or resin material. This can leave a vulnerable spot for a cavity to form. However, dental decay is largely preventable. Patients should consider these ways to prevent recurrent decay around dental restorations.

Strategies for preventing cavities under veneers

Because dental restorations can be a reservoir for plaque, most require some level of special care. Before choosing a cosmetic treatment such as veneers, a patient must be willing to commit to caring for them.

Routine dental X-rays

X-rays are a valuable tool for dentists. They allow the provider to see what is going on beneath the surface. Often, dentists can first detect decay around a veneer on an X-ray taken at a routine dental appointment. A dark shadow around the margin of the restoration is typically the first sign that extra attention is needed. If caught in the early stages, treatment may be less invasive. X-rays should be taken regularly, and the specific schedule is based on a patient's needs. Those with veneers may need X-rays more often.

Good oral hygiene habits

While brushing and flossing are important for everyone, they are especially crucial habits for people who have veneers. Because the margin of the restoration is vulnerable to decay, extra care must be taken to keep it clean. Patients should be brushing after every meal or a minimum of twice daily. Because dental decay often begins between the teeth, flossing is an important habit for all patients. It matters more when restorations like veneers are present. Oral hygiene aids like mouthwash and a water flosser can also be used to keep the mouth plaque-free.

Diet changes

Most patients know that sugary foods are a common culprit in cavity formation. However, many do not realize that the texture of food can be equally important. Sticky foods can be detrimental around the margins of veneers. As the food breaks down, sugar and acid are released on the tooth. Patients should choose foods that do not leave a residue or film. Drinking sugary beverages is also detrimental to dental health, as the mouth is being exposed to an acidic liquid.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates in Johns Creek, GA

Conclusion

Dental veneers can completely transform a patient's smile. One may feel more confident smiling after having these restorations placed and feel better about themself in general. However, to keep a beautiful smile, special care must be taken. Patients must be aware of the commitment required to keep veneers looking great. Before beginning the procedure, the patient and dentist should discuss how to keep the teeth under veneers healthy. In this way, the patient can enjoy the benefits of these restorations for years to come.

Request an appointment or call Johns Creek Dentistry at 770-623-1427 for an appointment in our Johns Creek office.

Recent Posts

Understanding Composite Versus Porcelain Veneers

Treatments available to improve minor aesthetic issues with your teeth include dental veneers that cover up such imperfections to give your teeth a more uniform appearance. There are two separate treatments that are referred to as veneers, and while they accomplish the same purpose, they have little in common with one another otherwise.Knowing the difference…

How Are Dental Veneers Made?

As more patients seek cosmetic dental treatment, dental veneers are more popular than ever. These restorations can completely transform a patient's smile. A porcelain or composite veneer can change a tooth's size, shape, or color. It can also be used to repair mild to moderate damage in some situations. This can help protect a person's…

Foods To Avoid When You Have Veneers

For those who suffer from damaged teeth, veneers can offer a natural-looking, long-lasting option to restore a beautiful and healthy smile. However, patients with these dental restorations should take extra care to protect them. Some dietary changes may be necessary for complete care.Most foods that are unhealthy for natural teeth are also unhealthy for veneers.…

Recent Posts

How Durable Is Dental Bonding?

How Durable Is Dental Bonding?

Your dentist might recommend dental bonding if you are unhappy with your smile. This article explains how long this restoration will last and what influences its lifespan. Whether you have had a tooth gap for years or have recently chipped a front tooth, even a little mistake will make you hesitate before smiling. However, before…

Three Popular Dental Bonding Treatments

Three Popular Dental Bonding Treatments

Dental bonding provides patients with a non-invasive way to repair a myriad of issues that affect their teeth. The procedure can be performed for restorative or cosmetic purposes. It typically does not require the use of anesthetics or multiple visits to a dentist.Unlike crowns and veneers, which typically require shaving enamel off the tooth being…