Interested in getting veneers in Wauwatosa? You’ve come to the right place! Check out this short blog post to learn everything you need to know about veneers, including one of the most common questions patients have about them:

Can they get cavities? Find out below!

What Are Veneers, and How Do They Work?

Veneers completely renew the look of your tooth. They are thin shells that are placed over the front of a tooth to cover its imperfections. Most veneers are made from porcelain and are able to cover:

• Bad staining and discoloration
• Gaps between teeth
• Minor chips and cracks
• Minor alignment issues
• Uneven teeth
• Irregularly-shaped teeth
• Worn-down or translucent teeth, etc.

Quality veneers are made to cover each individual tooth, which leads to natural results and easier maintenance. However, patients can also access more affordable solutions made from other materials, such as resin or even pre-designed snap-on veneers.

How Are Porcelain Veneers Bonded?

When you get porcelain veneers, the dentist shaves a small amount of tooth enamel, which will create a rough texture and make the perfect canvas for the veneer to bond with your tooth.

You won’t lose a lot of tooth enamel here, so you shouldn’t worry about unwanted side effects on your natural teeth like increased sensitivity. However, this is a permanent process, meaning you will need to commit to veneers for the rest of your life.

Can Veneers Cause Cavities? 

Veneers can’t get cavities, but your natural teeth certainly can. Cavities form when the unwanted bacteria in your mouth slowly break down tooth enamel and create a permanent hole. This process happens when the bacteria release acids while eating food particles in the mouth.

This acid won’t break down the porcelain of veneers but remember that these shells don’t cover the entire tooth like a dental crown. You can still develop cavities behind the veneers.

What Happens If I Get Cavities After Getting Veneers?

Sometimes, the dentist may treat the tooth without removing the veneer, but that greatly depends on where the cavity is and how easily the dentist can access it. Most times, your veneer will be removed during the cavity treatment.

This is why cavity prevention is the best approach to keeping your veneers longer. Remember to brush and floss your teeth every single day and get routine check-ups and professional dental cleanings to maintain both your veneers and your natural smile. 

Interested in Veneers? Find Out If They’re Right for You

Veneers are a fantastic choice for a lot of people, but they’re not for everyone. Dr. Shaun McCue can help you find out if you’re a good candidate for veneers in just one appointment!

To get started, request a visit to McCue Dental Health online, or call our office at (414) 456-1091 if you have more questions about our cosmetic dental services.