Veneers can turn the smile of your dreams into reality without requiring extensive dental work. They can address many imperfections at once using a minimally invasive method. Your stunning smile can last for a decade or more, but you must sacrifice some enamel. Don’t worry, it won’t compromise your teeth. Here’s how much enamel your dentist will need to shave off to create a picture-perfect smile.

How Veneers Work

A veneer is a thin restoration made of porcelain that’s bonded to the front side of a tooth. It’s a versatile solution to cover various flaws, like stains and chips. Bonding veneers to the teeth visible when smiling corrects many issues simultaneously, like discoloration, cracks, and gaps. In as few as 2 appointments, you can have a dazzling smile you’ll be proud of.

Why is Enamel Removed for Veneers?

Your cosmetic dentist must etch the surfaces of your teeth to ensure your veneers sit flush. This prevents any uncomfortable or unsightly ridges or ledges. It also creates a better bonding surface by smoothing the tooth. 

Porcelain allows veneers to be thinner than ever before to maintain more of your tooth structure. Generally, about 0.5 mm of enamel is taken off, but various factors affect the amount, like pitting or grooving of the teeth. Your cosmetic dentist will be conservative when prepping your teeth for veneers.

Do Veneers Damage Your Teeth?

Once enamel is lost, it is gone for good. It will not grow back if your veneers are removed, but there’s nothing to fear. Veneers won’t harm your teeth, but they must always be covered by restorations or they can be vulnerable to sensitivity, bacteria, and other complications.

Veneers are meant to provide a long-lasting solution. They can thrive for 10 years or more with the right aftercare, so you won’t have to budget for replacements often.

Maintaining Your Veneers

You can ensure your restorations serve you for many years by using non-abrasive dental products to prevent scratching them. Brush your teeth at least twice daily for 2 minutes and floss every day. Limit your consumption of sugars and starches to prevent tooth decay, which can occur underneath your veneers and any exposed enamel. Avoid any hard or crunchy foods to avoid damaging your new smile.

Besides caring for your mouth at home, visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll keep your teeth and gums healthy to get the most from your investment.

Although you’ll lose some enamel, it’s a small price to pay for the benefits you’ll gain from an attractive, confident smile. You won’t think twice before showing off your pearly whites.

About Dr. Leslie Metzger

Dr. Metzger earned her dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry and has regularly continued her training to provide specialty services, like cosmetic dentistry. She uses the latest techniques and technologies to create healthy, flawless smiles. Request an appointment through her website or call (248) 939-5264 to see if veneers are right for you.