Do My Teeth Have To Be Shaved Down For Porcelain Veneers?

The preparation process for porcelain veneers is one point about these dental features that many people are curious about. Many men and women ask if their teeth need to be shaved down before they can receive veneers.

Your teeth will need to be shaved down before a dentist can apply a porcelain veneer to the area. Dr. Salvator La Mastra and the team at Hamlett & La Mastra, DDS in Dallas, TX can guide you through the treatment process and help you see how well the effort works. The process provides a good look for your teeth and ensures a natural appearance.

Why is shaving necessary?

The shaving process is necessary for ensuring the veneers will not protrude from the rest of your teeth. The enamel on the front will be trimmed back by the same thickness as the veneer. The goal is to let the veneer blend in well with the rest of the teeth without anything sticking out. The design helps you restore your smile while creating a natural appearance.

What is used during the shaving process?

A dental trimmer will be used to shave off the part of the tooth where the veneer will appear. The trimmer uses a fine material to clear the top layer of enamel. A vacuum may also help remove the bits of enamel that are trimmed off, allowing for a smooth and clean surface. A small water jet may also help clean off the surface afterward to keep small bits from sticking around.

How much of the tooth is shaved?

The shaving process will involve a minimal amount of enamel. Our team at Hamlett & La Mastra, DDS in Dallas, TX will average about 1/50th of an inch to be removed from the front of the tooth.

Dr. La Mastra will produce a deeper trim to ensure the decayed part of the tooth is removed. The veneer will be thicker in this case, but the dentist will make a note of this point when preparing the porcelain veneer. The porcelain material is easy to trim and manage in most situations.

A small outline may also appear around the ends of the tooth. An outline will create a shape for the edges of the veneer. The design provides a suitable guide for where the veneer will be placed during the bonding process. The effort also ensures the veneers’ shape will feature edges that aren’t overly visible, especially in the spaces where the teeth make contact.

Contact us today to see if veneers can work for your smile

Dental veneers can create an outstanding aesthetic for your smile. You can consult our dental experts at Hamlett & La Mastra, DDS in Dallas, TX, if you require help with dental veneers. We are available for your dental needs throughout the week, so contact us today to learn more about our work and how Dr. Salvator La Mastra can help you with your smile.