Porcelain veneers are top tier when it comes to correcting teeth with aesthetic issues! This treatment option has become widely sought-after due to its remarkable results coupled with its impressive longevity. That said, if you’re interested in receiving porcelain veneers to address the minor imperfections present in your smile, you should know that your dentist will have to remove a small portion of your tooth enamel to place your veneers. 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 thin shells composed of dental porcelain that are used to conceal minor aesthetic issues including chipped teeth, discoloration, gaps between teeth and more. Although they’re very thin and meant to replicate the outer surfaces of your teeth, they would still appear bulky and unnatural if they were simply placed over your teeth as is. That said, a portion of your tooth enamel must be removed to achieve the best possible natural-looking results.
How Much Enamel Will Be Removed?
It might sound a little alarming to hear that your dentist will have to remove enamel from your teeth for you to receive veneers. But it’s important to remember that dentists will prioritize a conservative approach when it comes to treatment. That said, they will only remove a very minimal amount of enamel when preparing your teeth, approximately only half of a millimeter—roughly the thickness of your fingernail. Your teeth still need to be healthy and strong enough to support the veneers, after all!
What Happens Once the Enamel Has Been Removed?
After your teeth have been prepared and a sufficient amount of enamel has been shaved off, the rest of the process is relatively straightforward. Your dentist will take impressions of your mouth which are then sent off to the lab where a specialist will craft your veneers. 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.
Porcelain veneers can do a lot for your smile, enhancing both its look and feel! That said, having a small amount of enamel shaved to ensure that your veneers work as intended is a small price to pay, and certainly nothing that should cause you any issues. Talk with your dentist if you’re curious about receiving veneers to enhance your smile; it’s well worth it!
About the Practice
Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry serves the dental needs of the Ponte Vedra Beach community under the leadership of Dr. Kristopher Harth and Dr. Eric Townsend! The practice is proud to offer a wide range of available services, including many cosmetic treatment options like porcelain veneers! If you have any questions about veneers or would like to schedule a visit, you can contact the practice online or give them a call at (904) 285-7711.