What Happens to Teeth Under Veneers?

Choosing cosmetic dental work isn’t just about how your smile looks; it’s also about what happens to your teeth long term. If you’re considering veneers or crowns, it’s normal to have questions about how they affect your natural teeth and whether problems can develop underneath them.

Our Point Pleasant dentist explains what happens to teeth under veneers and how issues can develop over time below.

Key Takeaways:

Veneers and crowns don’t protect against cavities; your tooth can still decay underneath them.
The long-term health of the tooth depends on how well you care for it, including regular dental visits.
Problems underneath veneers and crowns often develop slowly, so they might not be obvious right away.

What Are Veneers and What Do They Do?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth to improve their appearance. They’re primarily used to address cosmetic issues, such as discolored, chipped, or misaligned teeth. They can also help with teeth that are worn down or have gaps between them.

While veneers do a great job of enhancing your smile, they don’t fix underlying oral health problems. For example, if your tooth has decay or weak enamel, it needs to be treated before veneers can be placed. Veneers also don’t address issues like gum disease or bite problems.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

Veneers aren’t permanent, but they can last a pretty long time with the proper care. Porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 15 years, while composite veneers may last closer to 5 to 7 years. Generally speaking, how long they hold up depends on your oral hygiene habits and everyday wear from grinding and clenching.

Remember, even though they’re durable, veneers can still wear down over time, especially if you’re not careful about protecting them. It’s also important to keep up with your regular dental checkups to make sure everything’s in good shape.

What Happens to Teeth Under Veneers?

To place veneers, your dentist will remove a thin layer of enamel from the front of your tooth to ensure the veneer bonds securely in place. This process makes the tooth slightly more vulnerable, particularly at the edges where the veneer meets the tooth.

While the veneer itself doesn’t alter how the tooth functions, the tooth underneath is still susceptible to decay, gum disease, and sensitivity. Over time, bacteria can get trapped around the edges where the veneer and tooth meet. If plaque builds up in these areas and isn’t cleaned regularly, it can lead to cavities underneath the veneer. The tooth may not be immediately visible, but the decay can still happen.

Can Your Teeth Rot Under Veneers?

Yes, teeth can develop decay under veneers. Veneers themselves don’t make teeth immune to cavities. When plaque builds up around the edges of a veneer, bacteria can work its way underneath.

Signs of decay may include sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, discomfort when biting, or darkening of the teeth near the gumline. These symptoms should be checked by a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

How to Clean Veneers

To keep your veneers and the teeth underneath them healthy, the best course is to keep a consistent oral hygiene routine. Here are some tips for cleaning and caring for your veneers:

Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Avoid hard brushes that could scratch the veneer.
Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the edges of the veneer.
Use a non-abrasive mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen breath without damaging the veneer.
Reduce sugary and acidic foods that can contribute to plaque buildup or tooth decay.

What Causes Tooth Decay Under a Crown?

Similar to veneers, crowns are designed to restore the function and appearance of a tooth that’s been damaged or decayed. However, just like veneers, crowns don’t make teeth immune to decay. The area where the crown meets the natural tooth, typically near the gum line, is particularly vulnerable. Over time, gum recession can expose more of the tooth, creating a space where bacteria can enter and cause damage.

If decay develops under a crown, it can weaken the tooth underneath, and in some cases, may require replacing the crown or even a root canal if the damage is extensive.

Why Don’t Dental Crowns Make Teeth Immune to Decay?

Crowns are meant to cover and protect a tooth, but they don’t provide a perfect seal that makes the tooth immune to bacteria. Over time, the cement that holds that crown in place can wear down, and bacteria can enter around the edges.

Additionally, if the tooth had issues such as previous decay or weakened enamel before the crown was placed, it may still be at risk for problems down the line.

How to Protect a Tooth Under a Crown

The best way to protect teeth under veneers or a crown is to keep your mouth healthy overall. Good brushing and flossing habits and keeping up with dental checkups will help reduce the risk of decay or damage. If you grind your teeth, your dentist may also recommend a night guard to protect both your veneers and your natural teeth.

Book Your Appointment Today!

If you already have veneers or crowns, or are thinking about getting them, it’s important to understand how they affect the health of your teeth over time. At Coastal Dental Group, we focus on both the appearance of your smile and your long-term oral health.

About the Author: Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 714-1030!