7 Complaints a Smile Makeover Can Address
If you don’t like something about your smile, consider cosmetic dentistry. Here’s what you need to know about a smile makeover and how to choose the right procedures for you.
Cavities Forming Behind Porcelain Veneers
If you have invested the time and money needed to improve the appearance of your smile with porcelain veneers, you will also want to make every possible effort to ensure your restoration lasts as long as possible. This includes taking care of your teeth underneath your porcelain veneers.
While the dental porcelain used in your veneers will not decay, it is possible for cavities to form behind your porcelain veneers. When this happens, the resulting tooth decay will threaten the long term health of your teeth and potentially shorten the lifespan of your restoration. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial that you take the proper steps to maintain the health of your teeth and gums following your porcelain veneers procedure.
The area most susceptible to decay after porcelain veneers is the edge of your tooth since it is harder to keep bacteria from forming in that region. The skill level of your cosmetic dentist will play a huge role in preventing cavities from forming behind your porcelain veneers. An inexperienced cosmetic dentist is more likely to place the veneers on your teeth improperly, creating uneven edges, ledges, or shelves where food particles can collect and bacteria can grow. However, it is much less likely that these issues will develop when your porcelain veneers are placed by a skilled and experienced cosmetic dentist.
There are also several steps you can take on your own to ensure cavities don’t develop behind your porcelain veneers:
- Reduce your alcohol intake since alcohol can erode the bonding agent that keeps your veneers on your teeth
- Avoid using abrasive toothpastes which may damage your veneers
- Avoid hard impacts and sharp objects which may damage your veneers
- Wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports or at night if you grind your teeth while you sleep
- Brush and floss regularly, taking extra care to reach the areas near the edges of your porcelain veneers
You should also visit Dr. Young’s Houston cosmetic dentistry office twice a year for your regularly scheduled dental cleanings. This will help ensure that any decay behind your porcelain veneers is addressed before it develops into a serious problem.
Please contact Woodlands Premier Dentistry today to schedule your initial consultation. Dr. Scott Young serves patients in Houston, the Woodlands, and Conroe, Texas.
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