What Happens to Teeth Under Veneers?
- nickwattson1
- 15 hours ago
- 3 min read
Porcelain veneers are a popular way to achieve a perfect smile. Many people turn to veneers to fix cosmetic dental issues like discoloration, uneven teeth, or small gaps. But if you're considering getting veneers, you might wonder, "What happens to my natural teeth underneath?"
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Before discussing how your teeth are affected, let's quickly recap what veneers are. Porcelain veneers are slim, custom-made shells designed to cover the front of your teeth. Dentists bond these veneers to your existing teeth to improve their appearance, offering a natural, polished look.
Veneers are durable and long-lasting, often staying intact for 10–15 years with proper care. They’re a good option for anyone wanting to enhance their smile.
Do Veneers Harm Your Natural Teeth?
The brief answer is no, veneers do not hurt your natural teeth if correctly applied by an experienced dentist. Veneers fit over your natural teeth, and their job is to enhance the cosmetic look and structure of your teeth, not damage them. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Preparation of Your Teeth
To use veneers, your dentist will need to prepare your teeth. This preparation usually involves removing a skinny layer of enamel from the cover of your teeth. This minimal step (often about 0.5 mm) ensures the veneers flush with your smile.
Once enamel is removed, it cannot grow back, so veneers are a permanent procedure.
2. Protection for Your Teeth
The veneers act as a shield for your teeth. They protect the exposed enamel from stains and damage while strengthening your smile's overall structure. This added protection ensures your teeth are not exposed to additional wear or sensitivity.
3. Risk of Decay
There’s a misconception that teeth under veneers are more prone to decay, but that’s not true. Your veneers don’t increase the risk of cavities. However, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Food particles and bacteria can still gather around the edges of your veneers, which may lead to cavities if not cleaned properly. Routine brushing, flossing, and dental visits are essential.
4. Teeth Structure Remains Intact
Natural teeth remain alive under veneers, meaning their nerves and roots are unaffected. Veneers only cover the front surface of your teeth, leaving the rest of your tooth structure unchanged.
Benefits of Veneers for Your Teeth
When veneers are correctly used and cared for, they not only enhance your smile but can also provide more benefits:
Stain Resistance: Porcelain veneers resist stains much better than natural teeth, keeping your smile bright.
Protection against Damage: Veneers can strengthen teeth weakened by small chips or cracks.
Improved Confidence: Veneers give you an even, polished smile, which can boost your self-esteem.
How to Care for Teeth with Veneers
Caring for your teeth under veneers is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Follow these tips to keep your veneers (and your natural teeth) healthy:
Brush Twice a Day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
Floss Regularly: Clean around the edges of the veneers to prevent plaque buildup.
Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Don’t use your veneers to bite into hard things like ice, pens, or nails.
Wear a Mouth guard: If you rub your teeth at night, protect your veneers and natural teeth by wearing a night guard.
Visit Your Dentist: Schedule routine dental checkups to ensure your veneers and teeth remain in great shape.
Final Thoughts
Porcelain veneer are a good choice for achieving the smile of your dreams. They won’t harm your natural teeth when placed by a skilled dentist and even provide extra protection for your teeth. However, they require proper keeping to ensure your natural teeth and gums stay healthy.
If you’re considering porcelain veneers and want to learn more, search for a "porcelain veneers dentist near me" and schedule a consultation. A dental specialist can guide you through the process and help you decide if veneers are the right choice for your smile.
Transform your confidence with a bright, flawless smile today!
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