Posted: October 1, 2020
Halloween is coming and, while this year may look different as far as trick-or-treating goes, the impact sugar-laden treats have on both your natural teeth and dental work will be just the same. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t enjoy the holiday or the sweet treats it comes with, but rather that you should take time to care for your teeth in order to help prevent issues like sensitivity, decay, and infection.
Can Veneers Get Cavities?
Dental veneers, commonly known as porcelain veneers, cannot get cavities. The enamel underneath them can. To help prevent cavities from forming underneath your veneers or any other type of dental work, you need to maintain a consistent oral health routine.
During times of heightened sweet consumption, such as Halloween, it becomes even more important to make sure you are:
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to brush after every meal and snack
- Flossing in between every tooth, from root to crown, at least once daily
Please note that, if you are eating sour or otherwise acidic sweets, it is best to wait at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth. Drink a lot of water during this time to help wash the acids off of your enamel and veneers.
You can further reduce the risks of oral health problems by choosing a specific time to enjoy sweets. This will help prevent a constant barrage of sugar throughout the day.
Damaged Veneers
Veneers can chip and crack. They can also become discolored. To help prevent these issues:
- Avoid hard candy. If you must eat it, do not bite it
- Avoid taffy, caramels, and similarly sticky sweets
- Avoid acidic, sour, and gummy treats
The truth is, plain chocolate is your safest bet if you want to enjoy a sweet treat without risking your veneers. Even dried fruits, typically considered a “healthy” alternative, share much in common with gummies and can cause serious damage to teeth and dental work.
Contact Us to Learn More
To learn more about dental veneers and how to properly care for them, please call Forestream Dental at (716) 656-8686 and schedule a consultation today. We serve Orchard Park, Buffalo, and surrounding communities from our office in Depew.
