What Happens to the Teeth Under Veneers?

Veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry solution, offering a way to improve the appearance of your teeth with minimal invasiveness. These thin shells of porcelain or composite resin are bonded to the front of the teeth to mask imperfections like discoloration, chips, or misalignment. However, many people wonder: what exactly happens to the teeth underneath the veneers? Let’s explore what occurs both during and after the placement of veneers and how they affect the teeth over time.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Before diving into what happens to the teeth beneath veneers, it's important to understand what veneers are and why they are used. Veneers are custom-made shells that are designed to cover the front surface of teeth, improving their shape, color, and overall appearance. These can be made from porcelain, which is durable and natural-looking, or composite resin, which is more affordable and can be placed in a single visit.

Veneers are often used to address a variety of cosmetic dental concerns, including:

• Discolored or stained teeth

• Crooked or misaligned teeth

• Chipped or broken teeth

• Gaps between teeth

The Process of Getting Veneers

The process of getting veneers typically involves two or three visits to the dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will assess your teeth and discuss your goals for your smile. If veneers are the right option, your dentist will then prepare your teeth for the procedure.

1. Tooth Preparation: The dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from the front of your teeth (usually less than a millimeter). This step is crucial to ensure that the veneers fit properly and look natural. The amount of enamel removed is minimal but irreversible, which is why veneers are considered a semi-permanent solution.

2. Impressions and Temporary Veneers: After the enamel is removed, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create the custom veneers. In some cases, temporary veneers may be placed to protect your teeth until the permanent ones are ready.

3. Bonding the Veneers: Once the permanent veneers are ready, your dentist will bond them to your teeth using a special adhesive. The veneers are carefully adjusted for proper fit and alignment before being permanently attached.

What Happens to the Teeth Under Veneers?

The primary concern many people have when considering veneers is how they will affect the health of the teeth underneath. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Enamel Removal

When the dentist prepares your teeth for veneers, they will remove a thin layer of enamel from the front surface of the teeth. This is a necessary step to ensure that the veneers fit seamlessly and look natural. However, since enamel doesn’t regenerate, the process is irreversible. Once the enamel is removed, your teeth may become more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.

2. Increased Vulnerability to Decay

Although veneers themselves are highly durable, the enamel underneath them can become more vulnerable to decay over time. This is because the enamel is thinner and more exposed after the preparation process. Without the protective layer of enamel, your teeth may be more susceptible to cavities if not properly maintained. This is why good oral hygiene is essential to keeping the teeth underneath your veneers healthy.

3. No Damage to the Tooth Structure

Veneers do not damage the structure of the tooth underneath them if applied correctly. The thin layer of enamel removed doesn’t affect the overall integrity of the tooth. In fact, veneers often serve to protect the teeth from further damage by covering up cracks or chips in the natural tooth structure.

4. Potential for Increased Sensitivity

After the enamel is removed, some people may experience increased tooth sensitivity, especially to temperature changes. This can be a temporary issue immediately after the procedure, but it could last longer in some cases. However, once the veneers are placed, they act as a shield, and most of the sensitivity should subside.

5. Long-Term Effects on Tooth Health

Over the long term, the teeth underneath the veneers should remain healthy if proper dental care is maintained. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are essential to prevent issues like decay, gum disease, or other problems that could affect the teeth beneath the veneers. While veneers can last for many years, it’s important to monitor the health of the underlying teeth through routine dental visits.

How to Care for Your Teeth Under Veneers

Caring for your teeth under veneers is essential to ensure that both the veneers and the natural teeth stay healthy. Here are some tips to help you maintain optimal oral health:

• Brush and Floss Regularly: Even though veneers cover the front of the teeth, it’s still crucial to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly. Make sure to clean along the gumline and between your teeth to prevent plaque buildup and decay.

• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: While veneers are durable, they can be damaged by biting into hard objects or chewing sticky foods. Avoid habits like chewing on ice, pens, or other hard objects to protect both the veneers and the natural teeth underneath.

• Wear a Mouthguard if Necessary: If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your veneers and your teeth from damage.

• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups are important to monitor the health of both your veneers and the teeth beneath them. Your dentist will examine your veneers and the underlying tooth structure to ensure everything is in good condition.

Conclusion

Veneers are an excellent option for improving the appearance of your teeth, but it’s important to understand the impact they can have on the teeth underneath. The removal of enamel during the veneer process is irreversible, and while the teeth may be more vulnerable to decay or sensitivity, proper care can help maintain their health. By following good oral hygiene practices and visiting your dentist regularly, you can enjoy a beautiful smile and healthy teeth for years to come. If you’re considering enhancing your smile with dental veneers in Las Vegas, consult with a trusted professional to get personalized advice and quality care.