Are you happy with your appearance when you look in the mirror? One of the great things about living in today’s world is the fact that you don’t need to settle for a smile that you don’t feel confident about. There are various cosmetic solutions available to enhance the natural beauty of your smile. Veneers are a popular solution because of their ability to mask various aesthetic issues. A small amount of enamel removal is required for veneers to fit properly, but how much exactly? Continue reading to find out what you can expect!
How Does the Procedure Work?
Veneers are generally placed in two appointments. Your dentist only removes a small amount of protective enamel from the front surface of your teeth. Next, a model of your mouth will be made and set off to the dental lab where your permanent veneers will be crafted? Until this time, you will be given a temporary set to wear while you get ready for the real thing. When your next appointment comes around, some major adjustments will be made, and your veneers will be adhered to your teeth using a special dental cement.
Why Does Enamel Need to Be Removed Before Veneers Are Placed?
There are two reasons why the enamel needs to be shaved down.
- The veneers must be bonded to the teeth and stay in place. By removing a small portion of enamel, this creates a surface where the veneers will easily adhere.
- Without removing any enamel, your teeth would appear to be bulky after the veneers are placed. By removing some of the enamel, your smile appears to be more natural and the veneers blend in nicely.
How Much Enamel Needs to Be Removed?
Your dentist will take away enough enamel for the procedure to take place, but not so much where it damages the structure of the teeth. Sometimes, teeth only require minimal shaving, but most of the time, you can expect about half a millimeter to be taken away. Your dentist wants to conserve as much natural tooth structure as possible to keep your smile healthy. However, you should be aware that enamel does not go back, so getting veneers is an irreversible procedure.
Veneers are great at improving the appearance of the teeth. They are customized to be the exact color for beautiful, natural-looking results. Ask your dentist if you would make a good candidate for the procedure. Veneers are a commitment, but feeling confident is priceless!
About the Author
Dr. Alison Fitzgerald earned her dental doctorate from the Creighton School of Dentistry. Since then, she has sought out the best world-renowned teaching centers, attending advanced courses with Partners in Synergy, the Kois Center, Progressive Orthodontics, and the American Orthodontic Society. To learn more about veneers or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (520) 338-2980.