Dental veneers offer a unique solution to help you achieve the perfect smile. The veneer process of shaving is a critical part of the treatment to prepare your teeth for veneers. But what does this involve? Let’s uncover the steps and consider the aesthetic benefits it offers.
What are Dental Veneers?
Before diving into the veneer process of shaving, it’s essential to understand what dental veneers are. Veneers are thin shells that are created from porcelain or composite resin, customised to cover the front surface of your teeth. They’re bonded to the existing teeth, creating a natural look and transforming crooked teeth, broken teeth, or slightly crooked teeth into a white, beautiful smile.
Preparing Teeth for Veneers: The Shaving Process
The veneers shaving process, also known as tooth preparation, is a standard part of the veneer procedure, particularly for traditional veneers. It involves removing 0.5mm of tooth enamel from the tooth’s surface to make room for the veneer. This is typically done using a dental handpiece and involves a minimal prep approach focusing on preserving the natural tooth structure.
The amount of enamel removed depends on the patient’s desired aesthetics and the condition of their natural teeth. For instance, a patient with crooked teeth might need more tooth surface shaved than someone with only slightly crooked teeth.
Your dentist will give you a local anaesthetic before tooth-shaving to ensure you’re comfortable throughout. They’ll carefully shave your teeth, adjusting the shape and surface to ensure the veneers fit perfectly and look natural. The goal here is to create a harmonious smile line without creating an unnatural gum line or risking nerve damage.
After Shaving: Taking Impressions and Temporary Veneers
Once your teeth are prepared, the dentist takes an impression of your teeth which then serves as a guide for the dental laboratory to create your custom-made porcelain veneers. While you wait for the veneers to be made — a process that can take a couple of weeks — your dentist might place temporary veneers to protect your teeth.
Remember, the veneer process of shaving does involve permanently altering your natural teeth. Shaving teeth for veneers isn’t a decision to take lightly. But with proper care, it can be a transformative procedure.
The Final Bonding Process
When your custom-made porcelain veneers are ready, your dentist will place them over your teeth to check the fit and colour, making any necessary adjustments. The veneer’s front surface is then cleaned, and a special dental cement is applied before the veneer is positioned on your tooth.
Once the veneer is perfectly positioned, a special light beam is used so the chemicals in the cement can be activated, causing it to harden quickly. The result? A permanently bonded, thin layer of custom porcelain that enhances your natural teeth’s appearance.
What to Expect After the Veneers Process Shaving
After the procedure, many patients find that they can return to their regular activities with their new, radiant smile. As with any dental procedure, some sensitivity to hot and cold foods can be expected for a few days after your teeth have been shaved.
With proper care, dental veneers can last for many years. Maintain regular teeth brushing habits and dental check-ups. Even after the veneers process of shaving, it’s still vital to care for your real teeth beneath the veneers.
Are Dental Veneers Right for You?
Deciding on cosmetic dentistry, like veneers, involves evaluating several factors. You must consider the condition of your teeth, your desired aesthetics, and even the bottom edge of your teeth — a good candidate for veneers should have a healthy amount of enamel, as the procedure involves shaving some of it off.
Porcelain veneers offer a long-lasting and natural-looking solution to various cosmetic concerns. Your natural teeth may need to be shaved so you can get a precise result that can dramatically improve your smile. However, the irreversible nature of the procedure means discussing it thoroughly with your dentist is important.
The Benefits of Veneers Process Shaving
The veneer process of shaving is a fundamental component in crafting the perfect smile with dental veneers. Let’s further explore the benefits and potential drawbacks to give you a comprehensive understanding of this treatment.
Achieve a More Natural Look
When your teeth are appropriately shaved, the veneers fit better and create a more natural look. Precise tooth shaving means the veneer can mimic the contours of your natural teeth, preventing them from appearing too bulky or artificial. This is particularly important for a seamless blend of veneers with your existing teeth, particularly for the top front eight teeth most visible when you smile.
Provides Long-lasting Results
Proper tooth preparation, including accurate shaving, contributes to the longevity of veneers. It allows the dental cement to bond securely to your tooth surface, reducing the likelihood of veneers dislodging over time. If you maintain them properly, porcelain veneers can last many years, offering a durable solution for a radiant smile.
Facilitates Correct Tooth Alignment
Shaving the teeth also enables your dentist to correct minor issues with alignment and shape. For example, teeth that are slightly rotated can be shaved to appear more uniform, enhancing the overall appearance of your smile.
Potential Drawbacks of Tooth Shaving
While tooth shaving is an essential part of the veneers process, it does carry some potential drawbacks:
Irreversible Process
Once your teeth are shaved, the process cannot be reversed. This is why the decision to get veneers must be thoroughly considered. Before deciding to proceed, you should discuss your dental health and aesthetic goals with your dentist.
Potential Sensitivity
Some patients may experience sensitivity after their teeth have been shaved. While this usually subsides after a few days, it’s essential to be aware of it. Your dentist might recommend a specific toothpaste for sensitive teeth or propose other solutions if this is a concern.
The Role of Technology in the Veneers Process Shaving
Advancements in veneer technology are crucial in reducing the need for extensive tooth shaving. The development of ultra-thin yet durable veneers means less enamel needs to be removed, making the procedure less invasive. This also preserves more of your natural tooth structure.
Digital smile design technology also aids the shaving process. It allows your dentist to create a 3D model of your teeth so your new smile can be designed with precision. This ensures that the tooth-shaving process is as accurate as possible, removing only what is necessary.
Maintaining Your Veneers
Despite the veneers being stain-resistant, maintaining good oral hygiene is still crucial after undergoing the veneers process of shaving. Brushing and flossing daily, regular check-ups and cleanings help ensure the longevity of your veneers and the health of the underlying natural teeth.
Moreover, while veneers are durable, they aren’t indestructible. Avoid using your veneered teeth to open packages or bite your fingernails. Even though the veneers process shaving is designed to ensure your veneers are strong, using your teeth in ways they weren’t intended can lead to damage.
Schedule a Consultation Today
At Beyond Infinity Dental, we understand that a beautiful smile can make all the difference. If you’re considering veneers, call us at (02) 8806 3799 and our experienced team would be more than happy to guide you through the veneers process and discuss if this treatment is right for you. Book a consultation with us today, and let’s start your journey towards the perfect smile.
References:
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-and-teeth-anatomy/what-is-teeth-shaving
https://www.jdat.org/data/upload/file-129-20220301114915.pdf
What Is Teeth Filing, Why Do I Need It and How Much Does It Cost?
