Whether your teeth are slightly misaligned, damaged, or discolored, dental veneers are a one-stop-shop treatment that can address a wide variety of cosmetic imperfections in a single procedure. However, one drawback that people often consider is the fact that their teeth need to be prepared in order for the veneers to be secured to them. Learn the details about veneer prep, including how much enamel needs to be removed from your teeth, in order to make the best decision for your smile.
Why Does Enamel Need to Be Removed?
Enamel is the outermost layer of your teeth that protects the more vulnerable structures beneath it. Before you’re able to get veneers, your teeth need to be prepped by removing some enamel to help compensate for the structure of the veneers, which are thin, porcelain or composite shells that are customized to fit over the visible surface of your teeth. This will allow the restorations to lay flush with your gumline and other teeth to make them look and feel natural. If this enamel wasn’t removed, the veneers would jut out, causing more cosmetic imperfections than they would fix.
How Much Enamel Will Be Removed?
Fortunately, the amount of enamel that’s removed from natural teeth during the veneer process is very minimal. In most cases, it’s about .5mm, which is about the thickness of a contact lens. Once this is complete, the cosmetic dentist will secure temporary veneers to your prepared teeth until the permanent ones are crafted. That way, you won’t have to worry about having a smile that looks less than beautiful throughout your journey.
Do Veneers Need to Be Replaced?
How often you’ll need to replace your veneers will depend on the materials that you choose to have them crafted from. The most common types of veneers that people invest in are porcelain ones because they reflect light in the same way natural enamel does. They’re also incredibly durable and stain-resistant, and they can last up to 20 years with a good oral hygiene routine, regular preventive checkups and cleanings, and when you give up bad habits like smoking.
Are Veneers Right for You?
Veneers aren’t the right option for everyone, but many patients can reap countless benefits from this procedure, especially if their smile suffers from a wide array of cosmetic imperfections. The best way to learn whether this procedure is for you is to schedule a consultation with your cosmetic dentist in St. Johns. They’ll be able to walk you through the entire process from start-to-finish and answer any questions you have to help you feel confident in your decision moving forward!
About the Author
Dr. Jonathan H. Cohen is dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in the dental field. He earned his Fellowship in Dental Implantology and completed a General Practice Residency, and he is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. His wide breadth of skill and knowledge allows him to offer several custom-tailored dental treatments to repair and improve the appearance of smiles, like dental implants, porcelain veneers, and metal-free crowns. To schedule a consultation, visit our website or call 904-230-2961.