Cosmetic dentistry as an industry has evolved a lot over the last two decades. Even if you have had cosmetic dental work done in the last couple of years, you might have a question about a new treatment or procedure you just recently heard about. I would say one of the most frequently asked questions we receive from patients in our office is… “Do cosmetic veneers damage your teeth?”
Porcelain veneers believe it or not do ruin or damage your teeth. Our cosmetic dentists here at San Marcos Dental Center, take a lot of pride in equipping each patient with the information or knowledge needed to create the best treatment plan.
What are cosmetic veneers?
Before discussing the specific details of how custom veneers can affect your health long-term or other teeth. We thought it might be helpful to first have a concept or grasp of what custom veneers are. Cosmetic veneers are simply just thin pieces of porcelain that are custom shaped to go over the front of our existing teeth. We can shape or color the veneers and tailor them according to your specifications and the desired result. Custom veneers are not full proof and need to typically be replaced every ten years with a new set. The feeling of a perfect smile is priceless as a patient, with pearly white teeth that are functional and designed to last.
How do custom veneers affect your teeth?
Custom veneers will not hurt or damage in any way as long as you see a qualified or licensed dentist. The first step of the process is to take a few initial x-rays to examine how healthy your teeth are and to evaluate potential signs of decay. In most cases, we will have to treat your teeth before we begin your treatment. Once your teeth and gums are healthy, we will need to prep your teeth. To prep your custom veneers we start the whole process by removing a thin layer of your existing enamel from your teeth. Although this might sound barbaric or painful it’s not, because we will be bonding the veneers over your teeth. Your teeth will now have more protection than ever before and will not be susceptible to staining, unlike natural teeth. From there we add a special bonding cement to bond the veneers to your existing teeth. The bonding materials used are completely safe and will not damage your teeth. This rather simple dental procedure will give you a long-lasting and beautiful smile while protecting your teeth from stains.
Over the next decade, you will enjoy your new smile! Eventually, you will have to replace them with a new set to keep them looking amazing but regardless you have a solution that won’t hurt or damage your teeth! Your teeth will stay intact and safe under the protected custom veneers.
If you have any questions on custom veneers please contact San Marcos Dental Center today at 760.734.4311 to schedule a free consultation 🙂