A modern cosmetic dentistry miracle, dental veneers can turn broken, discolored, or misaligned teeth into a perfect smile fit for the red carpet. However, many patients get quite curious about what their original teeth truly look like behind those flawless porcelain shells. So, keep reading the blog and learn what’s actually going on below your veneers, from the preparation procedure to the long-term condition of your underlying teeth.
The Preparation Process
The tooth needs to be made ready for a veneer before it can be positioned. Although this change is permanent, it is much less drastic than most people think.
Enamel Removal
A very thin layer of enamel, usually between 0.3 and 0.5 millimeters, is shaved from the front surface of the tooth to guarantee veneers look natural and don’t feel heavy. This generally corresponds to the veneer’s thickness. The goal is to make enough room for the veneer to fit smoothly within your smile line.
Prepared Tooth
After being prepared, your teeth won’t resemble “little nubs.” They will instead look somewhat duller, slightly smaller copies of themselves. The etching procedure will give them a rough texture that helps in the veneer’s strong adhesion. They are the natural color of your dentin, which is the layer beneath the enamel. Without the transparent enamel covering, they may seem more yellow.
What Happens to the Teeth Underneath?
The idea that teeth behind veneers are decayed or broken is a misconception. The veneer procedure is intended to maintain and protect the underlying tooth structure.
Veneers Protect Your Teeth
A strong resin cement is used to glue the veneer to your tooth, forming a seal that protects the underlying enamel from stains and germs that cause decay. However, the margin, or the line where the veneer and your natural tooth meet at the gum line, is the most susceptible spot.
Deterioration may develop if this margin isn’t completely sealed or if plaque accumulates there. For this reason, having veneers does not negate maintaining perfect dental hygiene.
The Nerves Remain Safe
The process of enamel degradation is superficial. In a typical veneer preparation, the tooth’s inner structure, including the dentin and pulp, which houses the nerve, remains completely unaltered. When put correctly, a veneer shouldn’t harm nerves or necessitate a root canal.
They Can Still Experience Sensitivity
As the teeth grow used to their new covers, it’s common to feel a little sensitive to temperature just after receiving veneers. Usually, this goes away after a few weeks. Long-term sensitivity is unusual and may be a sign of deterioration, a bond problem, or a fit problem that calls for a dental appointment.
Summing Up!
Your new smile is built on a carefully prepared tooth that sits behind a veneer. In order to complement the veneer for strength, functionality, and a stunning appearance, your dentist removes a tiny part of the enamel of your teeth.
So, if you’re considering veneers for a shiny, bright smile, consult our experts at Smile 360 Family Dentistry of Rancho Cucamonga and let us help you. Call us at (909) 980-4878 to book your appointment.