If you’re ready to invest in a picture-perfect smile, porcelain veneers may be right for you. Although there are more treatment options than ever before, veneers rank among the most popular cosmetic procedures. They can address many issues at once and provide long-lasting results using a minimally invasive procedure. However, you must sacrifice some enamel to benefit from veneers. Don’t worry, it will not damage your teeth. Here’s how much enamel your dentist will remove when prepping your teeth.
What is a Veneer?
A veneer is a very thin customized restoration that will cover the front surface of a tooth. This hides several imperfections, improving the tooth’s color, size, and shape. Bonding veneers to the teeth that show when you smile can fix many issues simultaneously, including discoloration, gaps, and chips.
Veneers are made of porcelain because it resembles enamel for results that look natural. It also allows veneers to be thin, so less enamel is removed during the preparation process.
Why is Enamel Removed for Veneers?
The surfaces of your teeth are etched lightly to create a better bonding surface for your veneers. It allows your veneers to sit flush for a strong bond. It also prevents unsightly and uncomfortable ridges or ledges to ensure your new smile looks natural.
How Much Enamel is Removed?
No two mouths or situations are identical, so there’s no way to know how much enamel will need to be shaved off until after your consultation. Your cosmetic dentist strives for a conservative approach to preserve as much of your tooth structure as possible. Depending on grooves, pits, and other factors, your dentist will determine how much enamel will need to be removed, but it is usually less than half a millimeter.
If your veneers are removed, your enamel will not grow back. Your teeth must always be covered by restorations to protect them from damage, whether crowns or veneers. Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about replacements often because veneers can last for a decade or more with the right care, like brushing and flossing.
Benefit from Long-Lasting Results
You can benefit from noticeable, lasting results with porcelain veneers. You can save time and money because you won’t need multiple procedures to address various concerns. Only a trained dental professional will know your veneers are not natural. Although you’ll lose some enamel, it won’t harm your teeth or make them sensitive, which is a small price to pay for the smile of your dreams.
About Dr. Josh Branco
Dr. Branco earned his dental degree from Boston University and has continued his education in various specialties, including oral surgery, IV sedation, and cosmetic dentistry. He strives for excellence when creating healthy, beautiful smiles. Dr. Branco is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Nevada Dental Association, and many other professional organizations. Request an appointment through his website or contact his office.