Creating natural-looking cosmetic work while protecting oral health is central to the care Dr. Ned Shimizu provides in Houston, TX. An AACD Accredited Fellow with more than 25 years of experience, he earned DDS degrees from Hiroshima University and Loma Linda School of Dentistry.
Why Cavities Are Still Possible With Veneers
Porcelain itself doesn’t develop a cavity. The concern is the natural tooth attached to the veneer.
A veneer covers only part of the tooth rather than surrounding the entire structure like a crown. Areas near the gumline, the back of the tooth, and the edges where the veneer meets enamel still need protection from plaque and decay.
Decay could become more likely when:
- Plaque regularly collects around the veneer
- You don’t clean between your teeth
- Your diet frequently exposes teeth to sugars or acids
- Gum recession exposes more tooth structure
- A veneer becomes loose or damaged
- Routine dental exams are skipped
How Do You Protect Teeth With Porcelain Veneers?
Your daily routine shouldn’t stop once your veneers are in place. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth every day with dental floss. These habits help maintain both your veneers and the natural teeth supporting them.
It’s also smart to avoid chewing ice, biting your fingernails, or using your teeth to open packages. Those habits could chip or damage a veneer.
Regular dental exams give your dentist an opportunity to check the margins of your veneers and watch for signs of decay or gum changes that you might not notice yourself.
What Happens if a Tooth With a Veneer Gets a Cavity?
The next step depends on where the decay is located and how much tooth structure has been affected. Treatment depends on the location and extent of the decay and the condition of the veneer. Your dentist will determine whether the tooth can be restored while preserving the veneer or whether you need additional care or replacement.
Keep Your Veneers and Natural Teeth Healthy
Porcelain veneers are built for longevity, but they don’t make the teeth underneath immune to cavities. Daily oral hygiene and professional dental care remain an important part of protecting both your smile and the natural tooth structure supporting it.
For questions about porcelain veneers or concerns about an existing restoration, contact Dr. Ned Shimizu at 281-531-0710 to book an appointment in Houston, TX.
