Veneers are a popular cosmetic dental solution for enhancing smiles. These thin, custom-made shells are designed to cover the front surface of teeth, correcting imperfections such as discoloration, chips, and misalignments. However, many people wonder what happens to their natural teeth beneath these veneers. Are they protected, damaged, or merely hidden? Let’s delve into the effects veneers have on your teeth and what you can expect when choosing this transformative dental treatment.
Understanding Veneers and Their Purpose
Dental veneers are typically made of porcelain or composite resin and are bonded permanently to the front of teeth. They are renowned for their ability to create a flawless smile while maintaining a natural look.
People choose veneers for several reasons, including:
- Correcting uneven or misshapen teeth
- Covering stains resistant to whitening treatments
- Repairing chipped or cracked teeth
- Closing gaps between teeth
- Providing uniformity for misaligned teeth
While veneers can drastically improve your smile’s aesthetics, it’s essential to understand the changes your natural teeth will undergo during and after the procedure.
The Preparation Process: What Happens to Your Teeth?
Before veneers are placed, your dentist prepares your natural teeth. Unless you are a candidate for prepless veneers which don’t require enamel removal this typically involves:
- Trimming the Enamel
- A thin layer of enamel, typically around 0.3 to 0.5 millimeters, is removed from the surface of the teeth. This step is crucial for ensuring the veneers fit snugly and look natural.
- The amount removed is minimal, but it is irreversible. Enamel does not regenerate, meaning that once veneers are applied, you will always need some form of dental restoration.
- Impressions and Customization
- After enamel removal, impressions of your teeth are taken to create custom veneers. The goal is to achieve a perfect fit that aligns with your natural bite and enhances your smile.
- Temporary Veneers
- In some cases, temporary veneers are placed while the permanent ones are fabricated. These protect your prepared teeth and offer a preview of your new smile.
What Happens to Teeth Under Veneers?
Once the veneers are bonded, they become a durable, protective layer for your teeth. However, understanding the condition and functionality of the teeth beneath the veneers is vital:
- Protection from External Elements
- Veneers act as a shield, protecting teeth from further damage, staining, and wear. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with weak or eroded enamel.
- Structural Stability
- The teeth under veneers remain functional and stable, as long as the veneers are properly cared for. The bond between the veneer and the tooth is strong, providing additional reinforcement.
- No Impact on Nerve Health
- The veneers themselves do not affect the nerves of your teeth. However, if too much enamel is removed or if the tooth is already compromised, it may increase sensitivity.
- Vulnerability Without Veneers
- If veneers are removed or damaged, the underlying teeth may be more vulnerable due to the enamel trimming during preparation. This is why maintaining veneers and promptly addressing any issues is crucial.
Potential Risks and Concerns
While veneers are generally safe, some risks should be considered:
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Some individuals experience increased sensitivity to hot or cold after the enamel is removed. This sensitivity often diminishes over time up to 3 months in some patients.
- Decay Risks
- Veneers do not make teeth immune to cavities. If oral hygiene is neglected, decay can develop on the exposed parts of the tooth or around the edges of the veneer.
- Replacement Needs
- Veneers typically last 10–15 years with proper care, but they are not permanent. When they need to be replaced, the process involves removing the old veneers and potentially further preparation of the natural teeth.
How to Care for Teeth Under Veneers
Maintaining veneers and the health of the teeth beneath them is straightforward with good oral hygiene practices:
- Daily Brushing and Flossing
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with non-abrasive toothpaste and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup around the veneers.
- Regular Dental Checkups
- Visit your dentist regularly to monitor the condition of your veneers and ensure the health of your natural teeth.
- Avoid Excessive Force
- Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or pens, as this can damage the veneers or stress the teeth underneath.
- Limit Staining Foods
- While porcelain veneers resist stains, the edges where veneers meet natural teeth may be prone to discoloration. Moderating your intake of coffee, tea, and red wine can help.
Are Veneers the Right Choice for You?
Deciding to get veneers is a significant commitment, as it involves permanent changes to your natural teeth. However, for many, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Veneers can restore confidence, improve oral functionality, and protect weakened teeth.
It’s essential to consult with a qualified dentist to determine whether veneers align with your dental needs and goals. They can assess your oral health, discuss alternative treatments, and explain the process in detail.
Final Thoughts
The teeth under veneers are protected, reinforced, and given a new lease on life. However, maintaining their health requires diligence and care. By understanding the process and potential impacts, you can make an informed decision about whether veneers are the right option for your smile transformation and we can help you do just that at Envision Dental Spa.
A beautiful smile starts with healthy teeth—whether they’re covered by veneers or not!