What Do Teeth Look Like Under Veneers?

Ever wondered what your teeth would look like under veneers? This is a common question we get here at Refine Dental. Veneers are a popular dental treatment, but not everyone knows what goes on behind the scenes. In this blog post, we'll shed some light on the process and help you understand what exactly happens to your teeth under those porcelain shells.

Understanding Veneers

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They're often made from porcelain or resin composite materials and are permanently bonded to your teeth. The purpose of veneers is to improve the appearance of your smile, whether that's by changing the color, shape, size, or length of your teeth.

Before veneers can be placed, a small amount of your natural tooth enamel needs to be removed. This is to provide room for the veneer and ensure a natural look. The amount of enamel removed is usually equivalent to the thickness of the veneer to be added.

Preparation of Teeth for Veneers

The preparation process for veneers involves reshaping the tooth surface, which may require local anesthesia. The dentist will take a mold or impression of your teeth to create your custom veneers. While you wait for your veneers to be made, your dentist may place temporary veneers on your teeth.

Once your veneers are ready, your dentist will place them on your teeth to check the fit and color. They may trim the veneer as needed to achieve the proper fit; the color can be adjusted with the shade of cement used. Your teeth will then be cleaned, polished, and etched to allow for a strong bonding process.

Life with Veneers

After the veneers are bonded to your teeth, they essentially become a part of your teeth. You can chew and bite as you normally would, and you should continue with your regular oral hygiene routine. With good care, veneers can last for many years.

It's important to note that while veneers are stain-resistant, they are not stain-proof. You should avoid food and drink that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine. Regular visits to your dentist will help maintain the appearance and health of your veneers.

The Appearance of Teeth Under Veneers

Underneath the veneers, your teeth may look a little different than they did before. They may be slightly smaller or shaped differently due to the enamel that was removed. However, this is only done to accommodate the thickness of the veneers themselves, and does not affect the function of your teeth.

Remember, veneers are permanent because your dentist needs to change the structure of your natural teeth to properly place them. This means that if your veneers were to be removed, your teeth would not look the same as they did before.

Are Veneers Right for You?

Deciding to get veneers is a big decision and not one to be taken lightly. It's important to discuss the process with your dentist and understand all the pros and cons. Veneers can significantly improve your smile, but they do require a commitment to proper oral care and regular dental visits.

If you're considering veneers, we recommend scheduling a consultation with a dentist experienced in cosmetic dentistry. They can assess your oral health and discuss whether veneers are a good option for you.

Transform Your Smile in Morgantown

At Refine Dental, Dr. Shaharyar Fiza is passionate about helping patients achieve their dream smiles. If you're in Morgantown and considering veneers, we invite you to reach out to us at (828) 433-1223 to request an appointment. We look forward to helping you transform your smile!