Veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment designed to improve the appearance of teeth by covering imperfections such as discoloration, chips, or gaps. While veneers can dramatically enhance a smile, it’s important to understand that the procedure involves some alteration of your natural teeth. Specifically, a portion of the tooth enamel is typically removed to ensure a proper fit and natural appearance.
Why Enamel Needs to Be Removed
The enamel is the hard, outer layer of the tooth that protects it from decay and damage. For traditional porcelain veneers, a thin layer of enamel—usually between 0.3 and 0.7 millimeters—is gently removed from the front surface of each tooth. This allows the veneer to sit flush with the surrounding teeth and prevents the final restoration from looking bulky or unnatural. Removing enamel also ensures the veneer bonds securely to the tooth for long-lasting results.
Dentists carefully plan the amount of enamel to remove to maintain tooth strength while achieving the desired aesthetic effect. Local anesthesia is often used to minimize any discomfort during this process.
The Veneer Placement Process
Getting veneers typically involves several steps. First, your dentist will evaluate your teeth and discuss your goals to create a treatment plan. After determining the amount of enamel to be removed, the dentist will gently reshape the teeth. Impressions are then taken to fabricate custom veneers that fit precisely over your teeth. Finally, the veneers are bonded to the teeth using a strong dental adhesive, and adjustments are made to ensure proper alignment and bite.
Once in place, veneers provide a natural-looking, durable enhancement to your smile that can last many years with proper care.
How Much Enamel Is Removed?
The exact amount of enamel removed varies depending on the type of veneer and your specific dental needs. On average, traditional veneers require removal of about half a millimeter of enamel from the front of each tooth. This is roughly the thickness of a fingernail. Your dentist will aim to preserve as much enamel as possible while achieving a seamless fit and aesthetic outcome.
It’s important to note that enamel does not regenerate, which is why veneers are considered a permanent procedure. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits is essential to protect both your natural teeth and the veneers.
No-Prep Veneers: Lumineers
For patients seeking a less invasive option, some practices offer Lumineers, a type of veneer that typically requires little to no enamel removal. Lumineers are thinner than traditional veneers and can often be placed directly over the natural teeth. While this option preserves enamel, not every patient is a candidate, so a consultation with your dentist is essential to determine the best approach for your smile.
Understanding the enamel removal process can help you make an informed decision about veneers and what to expect from your cosmetic dental treatment.
About the Practice
Dr. Joshua Holcomb DDS provides comprehensive cosmetic dental services, including custom porcelain veneers and Lumineers. Our advanced dental team focuses on creating personalized treatment plans to enhance the appearance of each patient’s smile while preserving oral health. Regular evaluations and careful planning help ensure long-lasting, natural-looking results.
Call us at (901) 850-0300 or request an appointment online.