One of the most common questions we hear from our patients about porcelain dental veneers is: “Will my teeth rot under the veneer?”
The short answer is no.
The longer answer is: Porcelain veneers are made from very durable and strong materials. They are not susceptible to the bacteria that can damage your tooth enamel.
That said, you still need to take care of your teeth in order to protect your smile and stay healthy.
What Causes Damage to Tooth Enamel?
Tooth decay or cavities are caused by a buildup of plaque on the surface of your teeth. Plaque is made up of food particles, bacteria and saliva. When these sticky substances harden into tartar (calcified plaque), they begin to eat away at the protective layer of enamel. Eventually, this process leads to tooth loss if left untreated.
How Do Porcelain Veneers Work?
Porcelain veneers work by covering the front surfaces of your teeth with thin layers of ceramic material. These materials are bonded to the natural enamel of your tooth surface using special adhesives. This creates a smooth, uniform appearance that covers the imperfections of your teeth.
Once your veneers have been applied, you will need to continue taking good oral hygiene measures to ensure that your teeth stay healthy.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
A porcelain veneer is an artificial shell that’s attached to the front of your teeth. It looks like a real tooth, but it’s actually made out of porcelain, which is much stronger than regular tooth enamel. A porcelain veneer is used to cover minor cosmetic flaws such as chips, cracks, stains, gaps between teeth, uneven spacing and size, and other defects including slightly crooked teeth.
How Do Porcelain Veneers Protect My Teeth?
Porcelain veneers provide an attractive alternative to traditional crowns and fillings for many people who have damaged their teeth due to trauma, decay or other reasons. These restorative procedures are also known as cosmetic dentistry because they improve the appearance of your smile without changing its function and tooth structure.
When you choose porcelain veneering, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of a beautiful new smile and healthy, strong teeth.
How to Protect Your Teeth From Tooth Decay Under Veneers
Your porcelain-veneered teeth will last a lifetime if you follow some simple guidelines.
First, brush and floss regularly to remove any debris that could cause decay. As we’ve said, the porcelain of veneers is not susceptible to attacks from bacteria on tooth enamel, but your teeth underneath those veneers are. So make sure you’re brushing and flossing around them too! We recommend brushing at least twice per day and flossing at least once per day.
Second, don’t forget to visit our office every six months for professional cleaning and polishing. We’ll remove any leftover plaque and tartar buildup before it has time to form another layer of calcification.
Third, avoid smoking and chewing tobacco products. Tobacco contains nicotine, which promotes bacterial growth. And when bacteria grows, so does the chance of decay of your natural teeth.
Finally, remember to keep your mouth clean. You should rinse after meals and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub your tongue and gums. If you notice any unusual changes in your breath, schedule an appointment right away. That way, we can check your oral health and help you prevent further problems.
We also recommend that you avoid foods that are high in sugar or acids. Both of these things can weaken the bond between your porcelain veneers and your natural teeth.
If you do experience any problems with your veneers, contact us immediately. Our team of experienced professionals will work hard to restore your smile back to perfection.
Why Are Veneers So Popular?
Veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments available today. They’re especially useful for correcting small imperfections in your smile as we mentioned above, including:
- Covering up chips, cracks, stains and other surface irregularities
- Correcting slight misalignments
- Adding length or width to your teeth
- Improving the shape of your bite
- Giving you a more even smile
- Making your teeth look whiter
- Making your teeth appear straighter
- Improving the overall appearance of your smile
- Helping protect weakened teeth
How Long Does a Porcelain Veneer Last?
The longevity of porcelain veneers depends on several factors, including how well you take care of your teeth. But generally speaking, veneers can last 10 years or more.
Looking for veneers to protect your tooth structure and give you a beautiful smile? Call Dr. Morgan today!