How Much Enamel Needs to Be Removed for Veneers?

Recently, you’ve been considering getting veneers to enhance your smile. After doing some research, you’ve discovered that the process involves having a small amount of enamel removed from the teeth. Just how much enamel can you expect that to be? And why is this step required? Read on to discover the answers to this question in order to ensure that you’re fully prepared to have veneers placed.

How Much Enamel Will Your Dentist Take Off Your Teeth?

Your dentist’s goal will be to remove as little enamel as possible so as to protect the overall structure of the natural tooth. The exact amount can vary depending on the circumstances; the shape and alignment of the tooth matter, as does the specific issue(s) that the veneers are being used to correct. That said, you can often expect to have about half a millimeter shaved off the tooth or teeth in question.

Why is Removing Enamel Necessary When Placing Veneers?

Removing enamel is an essential step for creating enough room for a veneer to be placed without making the tooth look too bulky. This will go a long way toward helping your veneer look as natural as possible so that it doesn’t draw attention for the wrong reasons.

On top of that, removing enamel helps roughen the surface of the tooth. A rough surface is easier for adhesive to form a strong bond with; as such, removing enamel will ultimately make it easier for your veneer to stay in place.

What Does the Veneer Process Look Like?

Having veneers placed typically requires more than one appointment. At the beginning of the process, your dentist will examine your mouth and ask about your goals for your smile in order to determine whether veneers are the right choice for you. If they are, a treatment plan will be developed, and the teeth will be prepared; it will be at this point that the required amount of enamel is removed.

Afterward, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth. These impressions will be sent to a trusted lab, which is where the veneers will be made. You will wear temporary veneers to keep your prepared teeth safe during this phase of the process.

Once the permanent veneers are ready, your dentist can attach them to your teeth during one final appointment, thus putting the finishing touches on your new smile.

The idea of having enamel removed from your teeth may be somewhat concerning on the surface, but rest assured that your dentist won’t take off any more than necessary. Once the removal process is done, you’ll be one step closer to creating the smile of dreams with dazzling veneers.

About the Practice

At Wayland Dental, we always personalize the care we provide our patients in order to meet their unique needs. We’re proud to be able to offer veneers – along with other forms of cosmetic dentistry – in order to help our patients enjoy brighter, more confident grins. To schedule a consultation with our team, visit our website or call (508) 651-0500.