Why a Cosmetic Dentist Needs to Remove Tooth Enamel Before Placing Veneers

A cosmetic dentist performs procedures every day that improve the look of a patient's smile and help build confidence. Veneers are an option for patients who do not like the appearance of the teeth due to shape, size, damage or alignment. Applying veneers involves a multi-step process that includes permanent removal of some of the natural enamel of the teeth, so many patients have questions about the procedure before committing.

Cosmetic dentists may need to remove a small amount of tooth enamel before placing veneers for several reasons:

1. To Create Space: Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. In some cases, there may not be enough space for the veneer to fit properly without looking bulky or unnatural. By removing a thin layer of enamel, the dentist can create the necessary space to ensure that the veneer sits flush with the surrounding teeth and appears natural.

2. To Ensure Proper Fit: Removing a small amount of enamel allows the dentist to accurately shape and contour the tooth surface before placing the veneer. This helps ensure that the veneer fits snugly and securely, minimizing the risk of it coming loose or shifting over time.

3. To Improve Adhesion: Enamel removal creates a rougher surface texture on the tooth, which enhances the bonding process between the tooth and the veneer. A strong bond is essential for the longevity and stability of the veneer, ensuring that it stays securely in place and withstands the forces of biting and chewing.

4. To Achieve Desired Aesthetics: Enamel removal may be necessary to address cosmetic concerns such as discoloration, unevenness, or minor alignment issues before placing the veneers. By reshaping the underlying tooth structure, the dentist can create a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile with the veneers. Call us to learn more.

Necessary steps a cosmetic dentist takes when applying veneers

Many patients like the results they see on others who have received veneers to correct smile issues. For patients considering a smile makeover or looking for ways to correct damage to the teeth, learning more about the veneer process can help make the decision easier.

Planning

The first step for obtaining dental veneers is planning. The cosmetic dentist in Phoenix, AZ evaluates the condition of the teeth and speaks with the patient about the goals and desired outcome. If the patient is not a good candidate for veneers, the dentist can provide other viable options. If the patient is a good candidate, the dentist gives an overview of the process and schedules the necessary visits. Some patients need other types of correction before moving forward with veneers, such as filling cavities, improving gum disease or addressing oral hygiene concerns.

Preparation

Veneers are constructed from porcelain or a dental composite material. First, the dentist in 85053 cleans the patient's teeth and makes an impression to send to a specialized laboratory. The dentist then removes tooth enamel so the veneer will have a place to attach.

The amount of enamel that must be removed depends on the thickness of the veneer to be used. The removal is necessary to maintain the same thickness as the natural tooth and to give the veneer a proper surface for bonding. Some modern veneers are very thin and do not require an excessive amount of enamel removal. Veneer construction can take a few weeks, so in the meantime the patient may be fitted with temporary veneers.

Bonding process

To bond the veneers to the teeth, the dentist etches the surface of each tooth to make the attachment stronger. A fit test takes place and each veneer is adjusted as needed. The veneers are then bonded to the teeth using a special dental cement or adhesive. The fit is checked again once the veneers have been placed and bonded to the teeth, and any overflow cement is removed. The patient then should schedule a follow-up visit to make sure goals have been met.

Conclusion

During the consultation with a cosmetic dentist, patients may have many questions about the process of getting veneers. Before veneers can be placed, a portion of the natural tooth enamel must be removed to maintain the proper amount of tooth thickness and to give an abrasive surface to adhere the veneers. Patients who learn more about the veneer process are better able to make an informed decision before moving forward.

Request an appointment or call Phoenix Family Dentistry at 602-547-9007 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.