Do Veneers Ruin Your Teeth?

We’re often asked if veneers ruin your natural teeth.

The short answer is no. Nothing will happen to your teeth as long as you take care of your veneers – which is easy to do.

Having said this, decay can still occur if  neglect your dental hygiene. 

Keep reading to find out more about the risks of decay and how to look after your natural teeth under veneers. 

But first, why might you need this procedure?

What do veneers do?

This cosmetic restoration improves your smile by creating the appearance of whiter and straighter teeth. Veneers hide minor dental imperfections, such as:

• Crooked Teeth
• Obvious Fillings
• Teeth that look too small, big or uneven
• Staining and discolourisation
• Small gaps between teeth
• Chips, breaks or cracks
• Tiny erosions
• Uneven surfaces
• Bulges or craters on teeth
• Minor misalignment

What are veneers (dental):

Veneers are wafer thin “shells” that are made from porcelain or resin composite materials. 

These “shells” are permanently bonded over the front of imperfect teeth, replicating the look and feel of natural enamel. It’s hard to tell the difference; even the most eagle-eyed acquaintance won’t notice you’re wearing a covering.

This treatment can be applied to a single tooth, multiple teeth or even all of your teeth. 

And one size certainly doesn’t fit all! 

The shape, size and colour of veneers is customised for every patient – based on your facial features, desired look and the characteristics of surrounding teeth (particularly important if any of these remain visible). 

Do veneers protect your teeth? This is part of the appeal, but it doesn’t mean you never have to worry about plaque or tartar. 

How to clean veneers and protect your teeth

The best way to protect your teeth is to take care of your veneers.

This means brushing twice a day for two minutes each time, and flossing on a regular basis. The Australian Dental Association has this handy guide. 

It’s fine to use a manual toothbrush, but electric toothbrushes tend to give better access to hard-to-reach areas.

Other tips:

• Grinding your teeth can damage veneers, leaving you more susceptible to decay. Your dentist can speak to you about alternative treatment options, or give you a splint or retainer to wear at night. 

• Avoid hard, tough or sticky foods (such as raw vegetables, nuts and brittle lollies). Reduce consumption of foods and beverages that could stain teeth (berries, coffee, wine and tomatoes). 

• If you consume any products that could leave a stain, be sure to rinse your mouth well.

• Don’t use your teeth as a tool to open bottles, chew on ice, bite your nails and similar activities. 

• Visit your dentist every six months for a thorough cleaning session that removes any built-up tartar. 

• Never play contact sports without wearing a mouth guard.

Can you get cavities under veneers?

Yes, it is possible to get cavities under veneers, but only if you don’t brush and floss your teeth properly.

Although veneers add a layer of protection by isolating teeth from the surrounding environment, it’s still possible for decay to form under and around the veneer. 

The usual culprit? 

A diet high in sugar, coupled with poor dental hygiene. 

Bacteria can also grow and spread if the veneers weren’t bonded correctly by your dentist in the first place. Please visit a reliable dentist who has plenty of experience installing veneers.

For more information and enquiries, contact us on 02 8889 1588.