Veneers Uncovered: How Much Tooth Enamel Must Be Removed?

Veneers offer the kind of results that other cosmetic solutions cannot. Their ability to conceal imperfections as well as change the size, shape, and color of your teeth makes them one of the most popular treatment options available. But are you aware of the process that is required to place these restorations? Did you know that a small portion of tooth enamel must be removed before they can be bonded to your natural teeth? Keep reading to learn more about the placement process and what you can expect.

What is the Process of Placing Veneers?

You will meet with your cosmetic dentist in Blaine to discuss your eligibility for veneers during a consultation. Once you are cleared to undergo treatment, you can expect the entire process to take two visits.

During your first appointment, your dentist will prep your teeth and remove a small portion of tooth enamel from the front surfaces. They will then take impressions so that your custom veneers can be crafted based on your desired shape and size. Lab technicians will fabricate these restorations, but in the meantime, you will wear temporary veneers.

At your second appointment, the temporary veneers will be removed before your final restorations are carefully put into place. Your dentist will ensure they sit naturally at your gumline, creating a beautiful, lifelike appearance.

How Much Tooth Enamel is Removed?

It can be alarming for many patients to learn that a requirement for veneers is to have a small portion of tooth enamel removed from the surfaces of treated teeth. Fortunately, the amount your dentist will take away is minimal – only about 0.5mm.

What is important to remember is that once this enamel is removed, it cannot grow back. This is what makes veneers a “permanent” cosmetic treatment.

Is There an Alternative to Veneers?

If you prefer not to have any enamel removed from your pearly whites, there is another option – Lumineers.

There is minimal prep involved, and your dentist won’t need to remove any tooth enamel. Instead, Lumineers are created to fit over the front surfaces of your teeth and deliver beautiful results. While they are not “permanent” like veneers, you can choose to seek alternative forms of treatment in the future because they are removable.

If veneers are what you have in mind to reach your smile goals, don’t be deterred by the amount of tooth enamel that must be removed. Instead, get excited about the kind of results you can expect to see in only a few visits to your dentist’s office.

About the Author
Dr. Douglas Green is a holistic dentist who wants his patients to embrace healthy, one-of-a-kind smiles. Offering cosmetic dental solutions, like veneers and Lumineers, he and his team at Imagine Smiles can revitalize teeth to appear brand-new and completely flawless. If you want to see a fully transformed appearance before the new year, contact us at (763) 269-8650 or visit our website to schedule a consultation.