By Dr. Jon ( Junyi ) Ho It’s natural to have some concerns about getting veneers on your teeth. After all, you want to be sure that they look good and that they’ll last.
One common question people ask is whether their teeth can still rot underneath veneers. In this post, we’ll answer that question and tell you what you need to know about keeping your new smile healthy. Read on to learn more!
Contents Navigation
- 1 What Are Dental Veneers?
- 2 Can Teeth Rot Under Veneers?
- 3 Can You Place Veneers On Bad Teeth?
- 4 Do Veneers Ruin Your Teeth?
- 5 Why Are My Veneers Painful?
- 6 How Are Teeth Prepared For Dental Veneers?
- 7 What Happens To Teeth Underneath Veneers Over Time?
- 8 What Steps Can You Take To Protect Your Teeth?
- 9 What Problems Do Veneers Fix?
- 10 What Are The Benefits Of Getting Veneers?
- 11 Final Thoughts
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers might be the right option if you’re looking for a way to achieve a more uniform, brighter look for your smile.
These are dental prosthetics that help improve the appearance of teeth. They are made from a thin, transparent material that is bonded to the front surface of the tooth. Veneers can be used to correct a wide range of dental problems, including cracked or chipped teeth, gaps between teeth, and misshapen teeth.
Veneers can also be used to change the colour of teeth. In addition to improving the aesthetics of your smile, they can also help to protect your teeth from further damage. However, many people are wondering if it’s still possible for teeth to rot despite having veneers.
Can Teeth Rot Under Veneers?
Many people are under the impression that veneers are a permanent fix. While it is true that veneers can last for many years with proper care, they are not invincible.
Under favourable conditions – meaning the veneers were applied and maintained properly – teeth under veneers should not rot. However, oral bacteria can seep in and cause decay if the dental veneer is not properly sealed.
In addition, if you have poor oral hygiene or eat sugary foods and drinks frequently, this can also cause bacteria to build up and eventually lead to decay.
In most cases, veneers are used to cover up imperfect teeth. But in some cases, you may need to consider other forms of dental treatment.
Can You Place Veneers On Bad Teeth?
The short answer is no. Your teeth must be in good overall health to place dental veneers.
Veneers can only be applied to healthy teeth that are structurally sound and free of tooth decay and gum disease. This is because the veneers are bonded to the tooth surface, and if there are any of these presents, it could cause them to fail.
During your initial consultation for veneers, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and take x-rays to ensure that there is no decay or other dental condition present. If there is, it will need to be managed before veneers can be placed.
Once your teeth are healthy enough to support veneers, the process is relatively simple. Your dentist will first prepare your teeth by lightly trimming them down and then bonding the veneers in place. Because veneer procedures usually require the removal of a small layer of enamel, many people wonder if veneers can ruin teeth in the long run.
Do Veneers Ruin Your Teeth?
Dental veneers are a popular way to improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile. However, some people worry that veneers may harm their natural teeth. It’s important to understand the changes made to your teeth during the process and the risks involved.
When you get dental veneers, a thin layer of porcelain is bonded to the front surface of your teeth. This porcelain is very strong and durable but can be susceptible to chips and fractures. In addition, dental veneers can alter the colour of your natural teeth and make them look more uniform. While this is usually considered an improvement, some people prefer the look of their natural teeth.
There are also some risks involved in getting dental veneers. The most common complications are gum inflammation and tooth sensitivity. In rare cases, the bonding agent used to attach the veneers can also cause allergic reactions.
Overall, dental veneers are considered safe and effective, but it’s important to talk to your dentist if you experience any symptoms.
Why Are My Veneers Painful?
Many people who have dental veneers experience little to no pain during and after the procedure. However, it is still a possibility, and there are a few possible causes.
- You are sensitive to the material used for the veneers.
- Your teeth are very sensitive, and the anaesthesia is not enough to numb the pain.
- It can be due to improper placement of the veneers by the dentist. If this happens, it can cause pain to your gums or when you are chewing or biting.
- When your teeth are drilled for preparation, it may irritate the pulp (tooth nerve) and cause pain if your enamel is weak or thin.
- The veneers may be too big or too thick. This can be very uncomfortable.
- An underlying dental issue, such as tooth decay or gum disease, might be present, causing pain.
If you experience pain with your dental veneers, it is important to consult your dentist to find the cause and get relief. However, it’s important to address existing tooth decay or gum disease before the teeth are prepared for dental veneer placement to avoid problems.
How Are Teeth Prepared For Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers can be used to enhance your smile in many ways, including making teeth look whiter, straighter, and more uniform. If you’re considering them, you’re probably wondering how they are prepared.
The first step is to consult with your dentist to see if dental veneers are right for you. They may conduct a patient interview, take x-rays and photographs, and examine your mouth and teeth. Once it’s determined that you’re a good candidate, they will create a treatment plan.
When your veneers are ready, you’ll return for a second appointment. Your dentist will shape and trim your teeth during your visit. This process is done to create space for your veneers. Then your dentist will take an impression of your teeth. This will be sent to a dental laboratory where your custom veneers will be made.
Next, a special dental cement will be placed on the back of the veneers and applied to your teeth. A light beam is then used to harden the dental cement and secure the veneers in place. The dentist can make adjustments to ensure that your veneers fit properly.
You can expect some sensitivity immediately after the procedure, but this should subside within a day or two. With proper care, dental veneers can last for many years.
What Happens To Teeth Underneath Veneers Over Time?
Underneath dental veneers, your natural tooth structure is still present. The teeth underneath veneers will continue to experience the normal wear and tear that all teeth experience over time. The teeth may eventually develop cracks, chips, or discolouration.
However, veneers can help prevent these changes or at least slow them down. Additionally, veneers can be replaced if they do become damaged. Therefore, while dental veneers are not permanent, they can last for many years with proper care.
Over time, your veneers can wear and tear like your natural teeth. Because they are subject to chewing forces, they can become loose or fall off completely.
Veneers typically last for many years before they need to be replaced. If you take care of them and practise good oral hygiene, you can help them last even longer.
What Steps Can You Take To Protect Your Teeth?
Dental veneers can help protect your teeth from damage. But there are some steps that you can take to protect both your teeth and dental veneers:
- Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush as part of your oral hygiene routine. Be sure to brush gently so you don’t damage the veneers.
- Floss your teeth daily to remove bacteria and plaque between your teeth and the gum line.
- Avoid biting or chewing on hard objects, such as ice or hard candy. This can crack or chip the veneers. Also, acidic, sugary and sticky foods should be avoided.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools, such as opening bottle caps or ripping open packages. This can also damage the veneers.
- See your dentist regularly for professional dental cleanings and checkups. This will help ensure that your dental veneers stay in good condition.
By following these simple steps, you can help protect your teeth and dental veneers and keep them in pristine condition for years to come.
What Problems Do Veneers Fix?
Veneers are used to address dental problems such as:
- Discoloured teeth: Veneers are used to treat teeth that are discoloured or stained from coffee, tea, wine, or smoking. They can also be used to improve the colour of teeth that have been bleached too much or do not respond well to teeth whitening.
- Worn-down teeth: Veneers can be used to restore the length and shape of worn-down teeth.
- Chipped or broken teeth: Veneers can be used to cover and reinforce chipped or broken teeth.
- Misaligned, uneven, or crooked teeth: Veneers can be used to improve the alignment of crooked or uneven teeth.
- Gapped teeth: Veneers can be used to close gaps between teeth.
Aside from addressing the above-mentioned dental problems, dental veneers offer other benefits.
What Are The Benefits Of Getting Veneers?
The benefits of dental veneers are largely cosmetic, but they are also used to provide a level of protection for teeth. There are many benefits to getting dental veneers, including:
- Dental veneers can give you a Hollywood smile. Dental veneers could be right for you if you want to have a celebrity-level smile. Veneers can cover up misshapen, chipped, or discoloured teeth to give you whiter and brighter teeth.
- Veneers are durable and long-lasting. They are made from tough materials that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday life. With proper care, they can last for many years.
- Veneers are stain-resistant. One of the benefits of porcelain dental veneers is that they will not stain like your natural teeth. You can enjoy your favourite foods and drinks without worrying about ruining your beautiful smile.
- They change the shape, size, or colour of your teeth. Veneers can be used to make your teeth look longer, wider, or more symmetrical. They can also change the colour of your teeth if you are not happy with them.
- Veneers improve your oral health. Because dental veneers protect your teeth from further damage, they can actually help improve your overall oral health in the long run.
Final Thoughts
While veneers are made from materials that are resistant to decay, it is still possible for dental decay to occur underneath them. This is because dental veneers only cover the front surface of the tooth, leaving the back and sides exposed where bacteria can enter.
If you have dental veneers and are concerned about the possibility of decay, don’t worry – you’re not alone. It is important to take extra care of your teeth to prevent any problems, but with a little effort, you can keep your smile looking beautiful for years to come.
At Darch Dental Care, we want our patients to have healthy smiles that they can be proud of, so please book an appointment online or call us at (08) 9303 9770 if you have any questions or concerns. We would be happy to help!
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