what does teeth look like under veneers

3 min read 24-12-2024

Meta Description: Curious about what lies beneath those dazzling veneers? This comprehensive guide reveals the truth about teeth under veneers, addressing common concerns, and explaining the pre-veneer preparation process. Discover the secrets behind a perfect smile and learn about potential issues.

Understanding Veneers: A Quick Overview

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored material (usually porcelain or composite resin) that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They can mask a variety of cosmetic imperfections, including:

Discoloration
Chipped or broken teeth
Gaps between teeth (diastema)
Misaligned teeth (minor imperfections)
Unevenly shaped teeth

Veneers offer a dramatic improvement in smile aesthetics, but many wonder: what happens to the natural teeth underneath?

What Your Teeth Look Like Before Veneer Placement

Before veneer placement, your natural teeth undergo a preparation process. This is crucial to ensure the veneers fit properly and look natural. The extent of preparation varies depending on the individual tooth and the desired outcome.

The Preparation Process:

Examination and Planning: Your dentist will assess your teeth and discuss your goals. X-rays and impressions may be taken.
Enamel Reduction: A small amount of enamel (the outer layer of your tooth) is carefully removed. This creates space for the veneer without making the tooth look bulky. The amount removed is minimal—typically 0.5mm to 0.7mm. Think of it like shaving a thin layer.
Impression and Shade Selection: An impression of your prepared teeth is taken to create a model for the lab to fabricate the veneers. The dentist will also select a shade that matches your natural teeth and your desired aesthetic.
Temporary Veneers (Optional): Temporary veneers might be placed to protect your teeth while the permanent ones are being made.

What Your Teeth Look Like Under Veneers

After the enamel reduction, your teeth will look slightly shorter and potentially more sensitive. The reduced enamel layer exposes a bit more of the dentin (the layer beneath the enamel). The dentin is a yellowish color, and this might be visible at the edges of the prepared tooth after the procedure is completed.

However, once the veneers are cemented in place, your natural teeth are completely covered. They are essentially "hidden" behind the veneer, which becomes the visible surface. Your dentist will make sure the veneer is properly bonded to mask the underlying color variations of your natural teeth.

Addressing Concerns:

Sensitivity: Some sensitivity is possible after enamel reduction. This usually subsides within a few weeks. Your dentist might recommend desensitizing toothpaste.
Tooth Color: While the dentin layer beneath the enamel is yellowish, this won't be visible with properly placed veneers.
Irreversibility: Remember that veneer placement involves removing a small amount of enamel. This process is generally irreversible, so careful planning and consideration are essential.

Long-Term Effects on Teeth Under Veneers

With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, your natural teeth under veneers should remain healthy. However, some possible long-term concerns include:

Secondary Caries: If there’s inadequate cleaning under the veneer's margin, decay might occur. Regular dental checkups and excellent oral hygiene are crucial.
Veneer Fracture or Failure: Veneers can chip or break, especially if subjected to significant impact. This requires replacement.
Gum Recession: Gum recession can expose the edge of the veneer, making the preparation visible.

Choosing the Right Dentist

Selecting an experienced and skilled cosmetic dentist is crucial for a successful outcome. Look for a dentist with extensive experience in veneer placement and a strong track record of satisfied patients. Consult with multiple dentists, ask questions, and review before-and-after photos to ensure you find the right professional for your needs.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified dentist for any concerns about your oral health.