Porcelain veneers are thin shells that cover the front of a tooth and are matched to the color of the surrounding teeth. They can last 15 years or longer with proper care and cover up cosmetic issues like minor cracks or chips in the teeth, small gaps between pearly whites, stains, minor alignment issues, and misshapen teeth. To attach them to your teeth, your dentist will need to remove a thin layer of enamel. Read on to learn how much enamel is removed for veneers as well as why they do this.
How Do Veneers Work
As previously mentioned, veneers are used to mask a range of cosmetic dental issues. They do this by covering the entire front part of a tooth. During the veneers process, your dentist will remove a thin layer of tooth enamel. They will then take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab. This will ensure that your veneers fit your teeth personally. You will be fitted with temporary restorations to protect your teeth until your dentist receives your new ones back from the dental lab.
Why Your Dentist Needs to Remove Some Enamel
One reason why some healthy enamel needs to be removed to attach veneers to your teeth is that they need to adhere to a smooth surface. This forms a lasting bond between the restoration and your teeth so they don’t come off. Removing some enamel also prevents them from looking bulky. This ensures that they don’t stand out from the rest of your smile.
How Much Enamel Is Removed for Veneers?
Veneers only require the removal of about half a millimeter of tooth enamel. Your dentist will remove as little as possible so the structure of your teeth isn’t impacted too much. Since veneers create a barrier between your teeth and things that could harm them like bacteria and hot or cold foods and drinks, this should prevent sensitivity. Be sure to continue brushing your smile twice per day and flossing every night. Use non-abrasive toothpaste and a toothbrush with some bristles so you don’t accidentally scratch your new smile.
Now that you know how much enamel is removed for veneers, be sure to speak with your dentist if you think they could be the right option for your smile. By making sure to take good care of them with a healthy diet, a good oral hygiene routine, and biannual dental visits, your smile can remain lovely for years to come!
About the Practice
If your teeth don’t look as good as they once did, Dr. Benjamin Geller, Dr. Gloria Garcia-Geller, and their team at Geller Dentistry offer a range of cosmetic dental services that can help. Their durable, lifelike porcelain veneers can conceal smile imperfections for uniform pearly whites as well as a brighter, more beautiful beam. Visit Geller Dentistry’s website or call their office at (323) 467-1472 if you’re interested in scheduling a consultation or want to learn more about how much enamel is removed for veneers.