What Do Teeth Look Like Under Veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored material that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. But what happens to the natural tooth underneath? This is a common question, and the answer depends on several factors.
The short answer is that teeth under veneers can look quite different depending on the pre-veneer preparation and the overall health of the teeth. Let's explore this in more detail.
What Happens to Teeth Before Veneer Placement?
Before veneers are applied, your dentist will typically prepare the teeth. This involves removing a small amount of enamel from the surface of each tooth. The amount removed varies depending on the thickness of the veneer and the dentist's technique. This preparation step ensures the veneer sits flush with the surrounding teeth and looks natural. Think of it like creating a perfectly smooth surface for the veneer to adhere to. This preparation is crucial for a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing result.
How Much Enamel is Removed?
The amount of enamel removed is generally minimal, usually only 0.5 to 0.7 millimeters. This is a small amount compared to the total enamel thickness, but it’s important to understand that enamel is not replaceable. Therefore, choosing a skilled and experienced cosmetic dentist is critical to minimizing enamel removal while achieving the desired aesthetic outcome.
What Do the Teeth Look Like After Enamel Removal?
After the enamel removal, the teeth will appear slightly smaller and smoother. The natural texture and translucency of the enamel are altered. This subtle change isn't usually noticeable unless you compare before-and-after photos.
Can I See the Prepared Tooth Through the Veneer?
In most cases, the prepared tooth will not be highly visible through the veneer. High-quality veneers are designed to be opaque enough to mask the underlying tooth structure. However, extremely thin veneers might allow for some subtle translucency, especially in areas where the natural tooth is darker or has discolorations.
What if the Underlying Tooth Has Issues?
If the underlying tooth has pre-existing issues like discoloration, decay, or cracks, these will usually be addressed before veneer placement. Your dentist might need to perform additional treatments, such as teeth whitening, fillings, or root canal therapy, to ensure the health and longevity of the veneers. In cases of severe damage, the dentist might need to build the tooth up with composite resin to create a stable foundation for the veneer. These prior treatments will impact how the tooth looks beneath the veneer – hopefully, healthy and uniform in color.
Can You Remove Veneers?
Yes, veneers can be removed, but this is a process that requires a skilled dentist. Removing veneers can potentially damage the underlying tooth structure if not done carefully. The prepared tooth will be revealed, requiring further restorative work to improve its appearance and function if necessary.
In summary, the teeth under veneers are prepared by removing a minimal amount of enamel to provide a smooth surface for bonding. While the prepared tooth will be slightly altered, a high-quality veneer will effectively mask the underlying tooth's appearance, creating a natural and aesthetically pleasing smile. However, the health of the underlying tooth before veneer placement significantly influences the overall result. Therefore, it’s essential to consult a qualified and experienced cosmetic dentist to ensure optimal results and long-lasting aesthetic enhancement.
