Veneers are custom-made shells that come in thin layers and are placed on top of the tooth’s surface. Installing them involves the removal of a small amount of enamel and fitting custom-made veneers. This cosmetic process enhances the aesthetics of your smile while preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.
At Bedford Dental Group, we pride ourselves on our expertise in the cosmetic dental industry with over 30 years of experience. We believe in creating personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs and aesthetic goals.
If you’re considering dental veneers and want to ensure that your smile transformation is in expert hands, Bedford Dental Group is here to guide you through the process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation
Before your veneer installation, you might be wondering ‘What do teeth look like under veneers?’ In this blog, we will explore the appearance and condition of teeth under veneers, addressing concerns, questions, and objections directly
The Impact of Veneers on Natural Teeth – What do Teeth look like under veneers?
If you have dental imperfections such as discoloration, chips, gaps, or uneven teeth, you can opt for dental veneers. Understandably, there are lots of concerns, questions, and objections about the process, despite their cosmetic benefits.
The preparation for veneers typically involves the removal of a small amount of tooth enamel to make space for the veneer itself. This process is crucial for ensuring the veneers fit comfortably in the mouth and align properly with the surrounding teeth, providing a natural-looking finish.
The extent of natural tooth enamel removal varies depending on the type of veneers chosen and the specific dental issues being addressed. Traditional porcelain veneers usually require more tooth enamel removal compared to options like lumineers, which are thinner and require less alteration of the natural tooth.
Typically, the tooth becomes more susceptible to decay and damage when the tooth enamel is removed. However, it’s important to note that the veneer itself acts as a new protective layer for the tooth once applied.
It is important to keep in mind that when veneers are properly applied and cared for, they can protect the teeth underneath from decay. This is why any cosmetic dentist will urge patients to maintain good oral health and visit the dentist regularly. Doing these helps to prevent issues like veneer edge decay or gum disease.
The Process of Applying Veneers
The veneer application process begins with a thorough first consultation. A cosmetic dentist will evaluate the patient’s oral health and discuss the desired outcomes. This stage often involves taking X-rays or making impressions of the patient’s mouth.
To prepare a tooth for a veneer, the dentist removes a small amount of tooth enamel from the tooth’s surface. It is usually about 0.5 millimeters, which is roughly equal to the thickness of the veneer to be added. During this process, local anesthesia may be used to numb the area.
After the tooth preparation, the cosmetic dentist takes an impression of the tooth or teeth to be veneered. This impression is sent to a dental lab where the veneers are custom-made for the patient. Temporary veneers may be placed in the meantime.
Once the veneers are ready, the dentist checks their fit and color, making any necessary adjustments. The tooth’s surface is then cleaned, polished, and etched to ensure a strong bonding process. Then a special cement is applied to the veneer, which is then placed on the tooth. Once correctly positioned, a special light beam is used to harden the cement, securing the veneer to the tooth. After the veneer is bonded, final adjustments may be made as necessary. A follow-up visit is usually recommended to check on the placement and comfort of the veneers.
The key to ensuring the longevity and health of veneered teeth lies in choosing an experienced and reputable dental professional like the cosmetic dentists at Bedford Dental Group. You must also ensure to maintain good oral hygiene practices.
The True Appearance of Teeth Post-Veneer Removal
Once dental veneers are removed, the appearance of the teeth underneath can vary significantly based on several factors. One top factor is the condition of the teeth before veneers were applied. The type of veneers used and how much of the tooth structure was altered or removed during the veneer preparation process are also factors that come into play.
The teeth may appear slightly rough or textured. This is because the process of removing veneers can involve etching the tooth surface to break the bond between the tooth and the veneers. So, it leaves the tooth enamel looking slightly rough or textured.
The teeth may also appear discolored when compared to their original state. This occurs mostly when veneers are initially placed to cover stains or discoloration. Also, the bonding used during the veneer installation process can sometimes be tooth-colored materials and leave a residue that affects color perception.
Depending on the removal process and the state of the tooth enamel, there might be minor chips or unevenness. This is more common in cases where veneers were removed due to damage or the need for replacement.
If you have had a veneer application mishap with another practice – our emergency dentistry services are here to address your needs quickly. Our cosmetic dentists will help you restore your dream smile and confidence! Whether you need immediate corrective measures or are exploring your options for cosmetic improvement, our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care.
The Semi-Permanence of Veneers
Typically, composite and porcelain veneers often last between 10 to 20 years. The durability depends on factors like the material used, the patient’s oral hygiene, and lifestyle factors. Since they do not last forever, they are classified as a semi-permanent dental solution.
Over time, veneers may need to be replaced due to wear, damage, or changes in the underlying natural tooth structure. It is why they are considered semi-permanent rather than a once-and-for-all solution.
One of the most critical considerations before deciding on veneers is the irreversible removal of enamel. To properly fit a veneer, a thin layer of the tooth’s enamel must be removed. This process creates the necessary space for the veneer to fit onto the tooth without appearing bulky or unnatural. However, once enamel is removed, it does not regenerate as it is a permanent change.
The decision to opt for veneers should be made with careful consideration of their long-term implications. Some factors to consider include lifestyle, cost, emotional and psychological considerations, etc.
Choosing veneers involves a long-term commitment to maintaining the aesthetic and health of one’s beautiful smile. It’s recommended to have thorough discussions with a dentist like BHDental’s dentists who can provide personalized advice based on an individual’s oral health, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle.
Maintenance and Longevity of Veneers and Underlying Teeth
Veneers offer a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for many dental imperfections. But like all dental restorations, their longevity depends significantly on proper care and maintenance.
Porcelain veneers typically last between 10 to 15 years. They sometimes get up to 20 years with excellent care. On the other hand, composite veneers usually have a shorter lifespan of about 5 to 7 years before they may need replacement or repair.
To ensure the longevity of either porcelain or composite veneers, you need to carry out regular dental hygiene practices like daily brushing and flossing. It is best advised to use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush when brushing. You should also brush at least twice a day and floss daily to avoid gum line decay.
Also, you need to avoid using your teeth for excessive force. You shouldn’t use your teeth to open packages or bite into very hard foods as they can chip and damage your veneers.
You should also schedule visits to your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings. The dentist will also check the condition of your veneers and the health of your real teeth.
Although porcelain veneers are resistant to staining, excessive exposure to staining foods and beverages can stain the composite materials used in the bonding process and the edges of the veneers over time. Thus, there should be moderation in taking these foods and beverages.
If you have bruxism, consider getting a custom-fitted mouthguard. It protects both your veneers and natural teeth from excessive wear. Remember, consult your dentist immediately if you notice changes like loosening, chipping, or discomfort in your veneers.
Maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing any dental issues promptly is key to prolonging the life of your veneers and ensuring the health of the underlying teeth. It requires a combination of good oral hygiene practices, regular professional dental care, and lifestyle adjustments.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your veneers look great and your natural teeth remain healthy for as long as possible. This helps to maximize the investment in that beautiful smile you desire.
Effects of Veneers on Gums and Surrounding Teeth
Veneers themselves do not directly harm the gums when properly designed and applied. However, the condition of the gums can be affected by how the veneers fit along the gum line and how well they are maintained.
Veneers that are correctly fitted and placed should not irritate or damage the gum tissue. If the veneers extend too far beneath the gum line or if they are not properly aligned with the natural gum contours, there might be an increased risk of gum recession. Gum recession can expose the roots of the teeth, leading to sensitivity and an increased risk of decay.
Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque buildup around the veneers, just as with natural teeth, potentially causing gum inflammation and potentially leading to gum diseases. Keeping good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential to prevent these issues.
The process of preparing and applying veneers generally focuses on the teeth being treated, with minimal direct impact on adjacent teeth. However, maintaining the health of surrounding teeth is important for the overall success and longevity of the veneers. The application of veneers should take into account the overall bite alignment. Incorrectly placed veneers can lead to bite issues, affecting not only the veneered teeth but also the surrounding teeth and jaw function.
Sensitivity and Discomfort Post-Veneer Application
After undergoing the veneer application process, some patients may experience increased tooth sensitivity or discomfort. One of the primary causes of tooth sensitivity after veneer application is the removal of a thin layer of enamel. This enamel acts as a protective barrier for the inner layers of the tooth, including the dentin, which houses the nerve endings.
When some of this is removed to accommodate the veneers, it can lead to increased sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, and acidic stimuli. While veneers themselves will eventually act as a new protective layer, the initial period following application can be marked by heightened sensitivity.
For patients experiencing sensitivity after veneer placement, dentists often recommend using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. These products contain ingredients like potassium nitrate, which helps to block the pathways through the teeth that attach to nerves, reducing sensitivity. Fluoride gels or varnishes may also be applied by a dentist to strengthen the tooth enamel and reduce discomfort.
In many cases, sensitivity and discomfort after veneer application are temporary. As the mouth adjusts to the new veneers, these sensations should gradually subside. Patients are encouraged to give themselves a period to adapt while following the advice of a dentist on oral hygiene and care.
Regular follow-up appointments with the dentist are essential. These visits allow the dentist to monitor the health of the veneered teeth and the gums, making any necessary adjustments to ensure long-term comfort and satisfaction.
Worried About What Teeth Look Like Under Veneers?
If you’re considering veneers for enhancing your natural-looking smile but are concerned about the impact on your natural teeth underneath, you’re not alone. Many patients share these concerns. It is why we have shared this blog on understanding what to expect and making informed decisions concerning porcelain veneers and veneers as a whole.
At Bedford Dental Group, we believe in empowering our patients with comprehensive information and personalized care options. Our experienced team is committed to providing expert guidance, ensuring that you make the best decision for your smile and overall dental health. Hopefully, this blog has helped you find the answer to the question of what teeth look like under veneers.
Ready to explore how veneers can give you a new smile? Contact Bedford Dental Group today to schedule your consultation!
