Veneers have become one of the most popular cosmetic treatments for people looking to improve their smiles. They provide a simple, long-lasting way to cover imperfections, giving your teeth a polished, natural look. But many patients wonder what happens to teeth under veneers. It’s an important question, and we want to walk you through the details, so you understand what happens to your teeth during and after the veneer process.

How Veneers Work: The Basics

Veneers are thin shells, usually made from porcelain or composite resin, that are bonded or fused to the front surface of your teeth. They’re custom-made to fit your smile perfectly and help you cover imperfections like stains, chips, or gaps.

  • Porcelain veneers: These are durable and mimic the natural light-reflecting properties of teeth. They are long-lasting and stain-resistant, giving you a fresh, bright smile.
  • Composite resin veneers: These are typically less expensive than porcelain but still offer a good appearance. They require less tooth enamel removal but may not last as long.

Veneers act as a cosmetic cover that improves the look of your teeth while keeping the function of your natural teeth intact. They don’t replace your teeth; they enhance them by covering any flaws on the surface.

The Preparation Process: What Happens to Your Teeth

There’s a preparation process before placing veneers. This is where most patients have concerns about their natural teeth. Here’s what happens:

  1. Enamel removal: To make room for the veneer, a small amount of enamel (the outer layer of your tooth) needs to be removed. This step is critical because it ensures the veneers fit snugly and look natural.
  2. Tooth impression: After the enamel removal, we take an impression of your teeth. This mold gets sent to a lab, where the veneers are created specifically for your teeth.
  3. Temporary veneers: In the meantime, you might get temporary veneers to protect your teeth while waiting for the final product.

This enamel removal is necessary, but it’s minimal—typically only about 0.5mm. Your teeth will still be strong and functional under the veneers. Some patients worry about sensitivity after this, but it’s generally temporary.

Long-term Effects on Your Natural Teeth

One of the biggest concerns is whether veneers weaken your teeth in the long run. The truth is, as long as the procedure is done correctly, veneers don’t harm your teeth. Removing a thin layer of enamel doesn’t significantly weaken your teeth.

  • Protection against wear: In some cases, veneers can even help protect the tooth’s surface from further wear and tear, especially if you have issues with grinding or acid erosion.
  • Tooth decay: It’s still possible to get cavities in the uncovered parts of the tooth, so it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Proper care of both your veneers and the natural teeth underneath can prevent any long-term damage.

Regular dental visits and cleanings will help you maintain your veneers and natural teeth.

Are Veneers a Permanent Solution?

Veneers are not permanent in the sense that they last forever. However, they are long-lasting, especially porcelain veneers, which can stay in good condition for anywhere from 10 to 15 years with proper care. Over time, they may need to be replaced due to natural wear.

  • Lifespan: You should expect to replace your veneers eventually, but regular dental check-ups can help prolong their life.
  • Replacement: When it’s time to replace your veneers, the process is straightforward. The dentist will remove the old veneer and bond a new one in its place.

To make the most of your veneers, it’s important to follow a regular care routine and visit your dentist in SW Calgary for check-ups. Regular visits ensure that your veneers stay in good condition and any probable issues are addressed early.

Taking Care of Your Teeth with Veneers

After getting veneers, maintaining a healthy oral care routine is crucial. The veneers themselves won’t decay, but the teeth underneath still need attention.

Here’s how you can care for your veneers and teeth:

  • Brush and floss: Brush (2 times) and floss (1 time) daily to prevent plaque buildup around the edges of your veneers.
  • Avoid staining foods: While porcelain veneers resist stains, it’s still a good idea to limit staining foods like coffee, tea, and red wine.
  • Mouthguards: If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard will help protect your veneers from damage.

Refraining from bad habits like biting your nails or opening packages with your teeth will also help prolong the life of your veneers. With good care, your dental veneers in SW Calgary will keep your smile looking its best for years to come.

Conclusion

Veneers are a great way to make the appearance of your smile better while keeping your natural teeth strong. Yes, there’s some enamel removal involved, but it’s a small amount, and the benefits far outweigh the risks. As long as you care for them properly, your teeth will stay healthy and strong underneath the veneers.

Are you ready for a dazzling new smile?

Chinook Smiles Dental – Calgary can help you decide if veneers are the right choice for you. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward transforming your smile!