Veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment for improving the appearance of teeth. This cosmetic treatment makes it possible to achieve a picture-perfect smile, just like that of red carpet celebrities. But not everyone has perfectly healthy teeth to get started with this process. So can you get veneers with cavities? Find out what’s possible and what dental experts suggest.
Can You Really Get Veneers If You Have Cavities?
Generally, dentists recommend treating active cavities before placing veneers. Having cavities does not automatically rule you out as a veneer candidate, but the decay should be evaluated and treated before cosmetic treatment begins. Porcelain veneers are primarily a cosmetic treatment. These thin porcelain shells can conceal cosmetic concerns such as chips, stains, discoloration, or gaps between teeth. However, they are not designed to treat cavities like fillings do.
Another thing to note is that their placement requires slight enamel removal from healthy teeth. Your dentist trims a very thin layer, just enough so that the veneers fit evenly on your teeth.
If your tooth surfaces are already damaged because of cavities, removing an enamel layer will leave them more vulnerable. You might develop long-term sensitivity and tooth infection later on. All of these problems can compromise your oral health as well as your treatment results.
Why Dentists Suggest Treating Cavities Before Getting Veneers
You’re not automatically ineligible for veneers if you have tooth decay. That smile makeover you wish for is still possible. But your treatment plan will start with addressing cavities first.
If active decay is left untreated, it can continue to progress even after a veneer is placed, potentially compromising the underlying tooth.
Think of it as a wall with structural defects. Simply coating it with paint won’t help. You have to fix the actual problem before you start decorating it.
Dentists typically recommend restoring the tooth with a tooth-colored filling. Then you can move forward with the veneer process. This is a healthier approach for your teeth and smile.
Maintaining Your Veneers and Oral Health
Veneers don’t stop cavities from developing. Good oral hygiene does. Follow these tips after getting this treatment done:
Clean your teeth daily
Brush twice daily (with a soft toothbrush) and floss your teeth at least once a day, as most dentists recommend. Clean around the veneer margins near your gums. Just be gentle when brushing to make sure you don’t get scratches on the veneer surfaces.
Watch your habits
Frequently consuming sugary foods and drinks can increase the risk of tooth decay, including around teeth with veneers. Try limiting it as much as possible. Also avoid biting directly into hard foods like ice, candies, nuts, and raw vegetables.
This restriction goes for inedible items too. Using your teeth to open a jar or biting your nails can damage your new veneers.
Keep up with dental checkups
Continue visiting your dentist every six months. They can catch any early signs of cavities along the veneer margins even before you may notice them.
Summing Up
Veneers are a cosmetic dental treatment, not a restorative one. If you want to get veneers but have cavities, talk to our dental professionals at Anh B. Dao, DDS & Associates and explore the most effective solutions for your smile. Call us at (281) 992-7000 today!