Q And A: Will Dental Veneers Ruin My Teeth?
Dental treatments are meant to help your teeth rather than ruin them, and although it is best in all ways to keep your original teeth as healthy as possible, things happen that may prevent that. Over the years your teeth can changed color, shape, become worn, develop chips, pits, fissures, or craze lines, etc. If this happens you may want to restore your smile because a smile is a very important thing. The first thing people notice about you is your smile, and a worn and/or discolored smile can add years to your age.
Questions and Answers
Q: What are veneers used for?
A: Veneers can be used for several reasons including to cover teeth that have been discolored due to the use of tetracycline or other medications, overexposure to fluoride, or root canal treatment. They are also used to restore the shape or size of teeth that have been worn due to erosion, grinding, or other reasons. They can be used to close gaps between teeth; to lengthen teeth, to mask chipped or broken teeth, and more. Veneers can correct several cosmetic issues with one treatment.
Q: Will the placement of veneers harm my teeth?
A: Veneers are not meant to harm your teeth in any way. However, in order for the veneer to lie flush against the front of your tooth or teeth so they do not look bulky or "buck," about mm of enamel is removed from the surface.
Q: Will people be able to tell that I have had tooth removed?
A: No. After the dentist removes the slightest bit of enamel, he or she will take impressions of your teeth to be sent to a dental lab where your veneers will be fabricated. In the meantime, temporary veneers will be placed to cover your teeth, so no one will be aware of your treatment.
Q: How long before my final veneers are placed?
A: It takes about 2 weeks for your dentist to receive your custom-fabricated veneers, which will be placed during a second visit.