Veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments in London, giving patients a bright, confident, and long-lasting smile. Whether you choose porcelain veneers, Lumineers, Emax veneers or composite veneers, the promise is a flawless appearance. However, a common question many patients ask is: “If I get veneers, can I still get cavities?”
The short answer is yes. While veneers themselves cannot decay, the natural tooth beneath the veneer is still susceptible to cavities if oral hygiene is not maintained. Understanding how cavities develop, how different types of veneers protect your teeth, and what measures you can take to prevent decay is key to ensuring your veneers remain healthy and beautiful for years.
At Whites Dental London, we provide high-quality dental veneers treatments across two convenient London locations, helping patients achieve the perfect smile while preserving oral health.
Key Takeaway
- Veneers do not decay on their own; cavities occur in natural tooth enamel beneath the veneer.
- Proper oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and fluoride use, is essential
- Limiting sugary and acidic foods protects enamel at the veneer margins
- Regular dental check-ups allow early detection of any microcavities.
- Quality veneers and precise placement minimise gaps where bacteria could accumulate.
- Consulting experienced London cosmetic dentists ensures proper care and long-lasting results.
How Cavities Develop Under Veneers
Cavities, or dental caries, are caused by acid-producing bacteria in plaque. Plaque begins to form as a thin bio layer on the teeth when tiny particles of food remain stuck between teeth and bacteria starts to accumulate. Even with veneers, plaque can accumulate at the edges of the veneer or on other untreated teeth. This makes it possible for cavities to form on the natural tooth beneath or adjacent to veneers.
How Cavities Form
- Plaque forms on tooth surfaces and veneer margins.
- Bacteria feed on sugars and produce acids.
- Acid erodes enamel, leading to cavities under or near veneers.
Risk Areas
- Veneer Margins: Where the veneer meets natural enamel.
- Adjacent Teeth: Teeth without veneers remain fully exposed to decay.
- Gum Line: Plaque can easily accumulate along the gums and cause enamel erosion.
💡 Even the most durable veneer cannot prevent decay if these areas are neglected.
How Cavities Form At The Veneer Margins
Even perfectly fitted veneers have edges where porcelain or composite meets the natural tooth. These margins are particularly susceptible:
- Micro-Gaps: Tiny spaces between veneer and enamel can trap bacteria
- Acid Penetration: Plaque acids can slowly erode enamel at the margins.
- Food Particles: Sticky or sugary foods can lodge in these small gaps, feeding bacteria.
💡 Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential to reduce cavity risk at these vulnerable points.
Oral Hygiene Tips To Prevent Cavities With Veneers
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is critical for preventing cavities under veneers.
1. Brushing
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste to protect veneers and natural enamel.
- Focus on gum line and veneer margins, where plaque tends to accumulate.
2. Flossing
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth;
- Consider floss threaders or interdental brushes for tight spacing.
3. Mouthwash
- Use a fluoride or antibacterial mouthwash to strengthen enamel and reduce bacteria.
4. Diet
- Limit sugary and acidic foods
- Eat a diet rich in calcium, vitamins, and fibre to support enamel health.
5. Professional Dental Visits
- Schedule check-ups every six months.
- Early detection of enamel erosion or microcavities allows intervention before serious decay occurs.
- Professional cleaning removes plaque from areas that are difficult to reach with brushing alone.
Types Of Veneers And Their Impact On Cavity Risk
Different types of veneers slightly influence cavity risk due to thickness, preparation and placement.
1. Porcelain Veneers
- Require minimal enamel removal, leaving a thin layer exposed.
- Strong and polished, reducing plaque adhesion
- Proper bonding ensures tight margins, limiting bacterial access.
2. Lumineers (No-Prep Veneers)
- Require little or no enamel removal, preserving natural tooth structure.
- Slightly thicker edges can create micro-gaps if not precisely fitted.
- Reversible but still require proper oral hygiene to protect underlying teeth.
3. Emax Veneers
- Made from high-strength lithium disilicate glass ceramic.
- Ultra-thin yet durable, allowing for minimal preparation.
- Highly resistant to staining and decay, but margins still need care.
4. Composite Veneers
- Applied directly to teeth and sculpted in the mouth.
- Less durable than porcelain, more prone to wear and staining.
- Require meticulous oral hygiene to prevent cavities under and around veneers.
Common Mistakes That Cause Cavities With Veneers
Even with veneers, certain habits can increase cavity risk:
- Neglecting flossing — plaque builds up at veneer edges.
- Skipping dental visits — early decay may go unnoticed.
- Frequent sugary or acidic foods — enamel softens, increasing cavity risk.
- Teeth grinding or biting hard objects — can damage veneers and expose enamel
- Using abrasive toothpaste — scratches veneer surface, encouraging plaque accumulation.
💡 Avoiding these mistakes significantly reduces the chance of cavities under veneers.
Signs Of Cavities Under Veneers
Detecting cavities under veneers early is crucial for preventing serious damage. Watch for:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Discoloration at veneer margins.
- Mild discomfort or pain when biting.
- Visible pits or holes at the edge of veneers (rare but serious).
💡 If any of these signs appear, book a dental appointment immediately.
Long-Term Maintenance Tips For London Patients
- Brush gently twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss carefully around veneers using threaders or soft picks.
- Avoid chewing hard objects or ice
- Limit coffee, tea, wine, and sugary snacks.
- Attend 6-month check-ups
- Consider a custom night guard if you grind teeth
- Rinse mouth with water after meals to reduce acids and food residue;
💡 These measures protect both your veneers and underlying teeth from cavities.
Real Patient Experiences
Case 1: Lumineers With Minor Sensitivity
A patient received Lumineers to cover gaps. Six months later, minor plaque was detected at the gumline, but no cavities formed. After professional cleaning and reinforced hygiene, the veneers remained intact and healthy.
Case 2: Porcelain Veneers After Whitening
A patient received porcelain veneers to mask staining. By maintaining oral hygiene and semi-annual visits, the veneers remained bright and cavity-free for years.
Case 3: Emax Veneers For Chipped Teeth
Emax veneers were applied to repair chipped teeth. Proper care, including flossing around veneer margins and avoiding sugary foods, prevented cavities and maintained structural integrity.
Pros And Cons Of Veneers Regarding Cavities
Pros
- Protects the tooth’s front surface.
- Enhances aesthetics while partially shielding enamel.
- Durable and resistant to staining.
Cons
- Margins remain susceptible to bacteria
- Underlying teeth can still decay without proper care.
- Veneers require professional maintenance to avoid complications.
Dentist Recommendations
- Evaluate oral health, enamel thickness, and diet before veneer placement.
- Choose high-quality materials and an experienced cosmetic dentist.
- Maintain consistent oral hygiene and check-ups for longevity and cavity prevention.
FAQ — Cavities And Veneers
1. Can cavities form under veneers?
Yes, the natural tooth beneath the veneer can decay if oral hygiene is poor.
2. Are veneers immune to bacteria?
No, porcelain and composite veneers resist decay, but plaque can accumulate at margins.
3. How often should I see a dentist with veneers?
Every six months for professional cleaning and examination
4. Can veneers be repaired if a cavity forms?
Minor decay can sometimes be treated without removing the veneer, but extensive decay may require replacement.
5. Does diet affect cavities under veneers?
Yes, high sugar and acidic foods increase enamel erosion and decay risk at veneer edges.
Why Choose Whites Dental In London
At Whites Dental, we provide comprehensive cosmetic and restorative dentistry, including porcelain veneers, Lumineers and Emax veneers.
- Expert Cosmetic Dentists – skilled in enamel preservation and precise veneer placement;
- Premium Materials – durable, stain-resistant porcelain and Emax veneers.
- Personalised Smile Design – tailored to your aesthetic goals and oral health.
- Convenient London Locations – Waterloo (SE1) & Marble Arch (W2)
- Patient Education – guidance on hygiene, diet, and maintenance.
Whites Dental Waterloo: 172 Blackfriars Rd, London SE1 8ER | 020 8616 0590
Whites Dental Marble Arch: 52B Kendal St, St George’s Fields, London W2 2BP | 020 3576 2325
Conclusion
Even with veneers, you can still get cavities, particularly at margins or surrounding teeth. However, with excellent oral hygiene, regular dental visits and careful diet management, cavities can be prevented and veneers can last for decades.
Selecting high-quality veneers and consulting an experienced veneers dentist in London, such as Whites Dental, ensures your smile remains healthy, bright and long-lasting.