When it comes to dental veneers, one of the first questions patients ask our cosmetic dentist is:
"Will they damage my teeth?"
We understand the concern as veneers involve some enamel trimming and people are worried that this may make their teeth more sensitive.
Keep reading to find out what actually happens when you get veneers.
How Veneers Affect Your Teeth
If the treatment is done by a professional and experienced cosmetic dentist, veneers won't affect or damage your teeth in any way. On the contrary, veneers will protect and strengthen teeth that have been chipped or cracked.
The misconception comes from the fact that veneers require a bit of enamel shaving and people assume that this procedure will make their teeth more vulnerable and sensitive. But, the dentist will only remove a very small amount of enamel (about half a millimeter) to make the surface of your tooth rough enough for the veneer to stick.
But, because enamel doesn't grow back, veneers are an irreversible treatment. Your teeth will be exposed without veneers and you need these thin shells to cover and protect them.
Veneers Can Get Damaged
Veneers cover your teeth and protect them, and this gives a lot of people a false sense of security. Because veneers are stain and cavity resistant and cover natural teeth, they assume they are like a shield.
Make no mistakes, your natural teeth are still prone to getting cavities if you don't take good care of them.
If you fail to brush your teeth daily, bacteria will accumulate at the base of your gum line and slowly but surely find their way under the veneers.
Spotting tooth decay when you have veneers is almost impossible and most people get to the dentist when they're already in pain and the damage is considerable. Very often, the dentist has no other choice than to remove the veneers to treat the decay.
The best way to protect your teeth with veneers is to have good and consistent oral care. This means brushing twice a day for at least two minutes and flossing every night. In addition, you should also see your dentist regularly, wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play contact sports, and never use your teeth as tools.
You should also limit the consumption of foods and drinks. While veneers are stain resistant, your teeth aren't and they will change color sooner than veneers if they are frequently exposed to highly pigmented items.
Have More Questions? We're Here to Answer Them!
Do you have any more questions or concerns about veneers? Fremont Family Dentistry is here to answer them and help you find the best cosmetic dental treatment for your oral health.
Send us a message online and ask whatever questions you may have and we will get back to you as soon as possible. You can also call us at (402) 721-0488 to book an appointment with Dr. Adam Lamprecht.