If you have compromised teeth, you’re probably wondering what your options are for enhancing their look. Porcelain veneers are one of the best available solutions for this—many patients have turned towards them due to their remarkable results coupled with their impressive longevity. That said, if you’re interested in receiving veneers, you should know that your dentist will have to remove a small portion of your tooth enamel to place them. Keep reading to learn more about why this part of the process is necessary and why you have absolutely nothing to be concerned about.
Why Does Enamel Need to Be Removed for Veneers?
Veneers are used to conceal minor aesthetic issues such as chipped or cracked teeth, stubborn discoloration, gaps between teeth, and more. They are ultra-thin sheets of dental porcelain and they’re bonded to the outer surfaces of your teeth, but in order to do this, a small layer of enamel needs to first be removed from the affected teeth. This helps your veneers to nicely mimic your natural teeth; if they were simply placed without any prep work, they would still appear bulky and unnatural! It also ensures a stronger, lasting bond once the veneers have been planted. That said, removing a small amount of enamel before placing the veneers allows for the best possible results.
How Much Enamel Needs to Be Removed?
It might sound a little jarring to hear that your dentist will need to remove enamel from your teeth—after all, enamel doesn’t grow back! However, it’s important to remember that your dentist will always prioritize a conservative approach when it comes to treatment. That means they will only remove what’s absolutely necessary; and in this case, roughly half a millimeter is all they need to shave, which is about the thickness of your fingernail. This allows the veneers to rest nicely on your teeth without looking unnatural—and also ensures that your teeth are still healthy enough to support the veneers!
What Happens Next?
After your teeth have been prepared for veneers, the rest of the process is relatively straightforward: impressions are taken of your mouth and sent to a lab where your veneers are manufactured, and then they’re sent back to your dentist so they can make any final adjustments before you receive them. In the meantime, you’ll be given temporary veneers to “test-drive” your new smile. But once your permanent veneers are ready and placed, you’re set to enjoy all the benefits they have to offer for many years to come—they can last for 10 years or beyond with proper care!
Porcelain veneers will completely change your smile and life—and having a small amount of enamel removed to ensure their beauty and effectiveness is a small price to pay. Talk with your dentist if you’re curious about receiving veneers to enhance your smile; it’s well worth it!
About the Practice
The team at Salmon Brook Dental Associates is honored to serve the dental needs of the Granby, CT area under the leadership of Dr. Kenneth Endres and Dr. Gunveen Chawla. Both have several years of experience in a wide variety of fields and strive to provide an exceptional level of dental care for all their patients. Their practice is proud to offer many available services including cosmetic options like porcelain veneers. If you have any questions about veneers or would like to set up an appointment, feel free to contact the practice online or by phone: (860) 653-4551.