Porcelain veneers usually involve removing a thin layer of enamel, and that is permanent. Done carefully on suitable teeth, veneers do not “ruin” teeth, but they do commit you to maintaining or replacing them in future. Composite veneers often need little or no enamel removal. Here is an honest look at what happens to the tooth and how to keep risks low.
What Happens to the Tooth?
For porcelain veneers, your dentist usually reshapes the front surface of the tooth so the veneer sits flush and does not look bulky. The amount removed is often a fraction of a millimetre, and depends on the tooth’s position and the planned change.
This enamel does not grow back. Once a tooth is prepared for a porcelain veneer, it will always need a veneer or another restoration to cover it.
Composite veneers are built up on the tooth, often with little or no preparation, so they are generally more conservative. Read porcelain vs composite veneers.
Common Myths
| Myth | The reality |
|---|---|
| “Teeth are filed down to stumps.” | That describes crown preparation in some cases. Veneer preparation is usually a thin layer from the front surface. |
| “Veneers rot your teeth.” | Veneers don’t cause decay. Plaque at the edges can, just as with natural teeth, so cleaning matters. |
| “Veneers are permanent and last forever.” | Porcelain veneers can last many years but may need replacing; composite usually needs repair sooner. |
| “Anyone can get veneers.” | Teeth and gums need to be healthy, and some bites or habits make veneers a poor choice. |
The Real Risks
Like any dental treatment, veneers carry risks. They include:
- Irreversibility. Enamel removed for porcelain veneers cannot be replaced.
- Sensitivity. Some people have temporary sensitivity after preparation.
- Chipping or debonding. Veneers can chip or come loose, especially with grinding or biting hard objects.
- Decay or gum problems at the edges if plaque is not cleaned away.
- Future replacement. Veneers may need replacing over your lifetime, which may involve some further preparation.
- Nerve problems. Rarely, a prepared tooth may need root canal treatment later.
Your dentist should explain these risks at your consultation and in your written treatment plan.
How Dentists Keep Veneers Conservative
- Planning first. A smile design or mock-up guides how much, if any, preparation is needed.
- Straightening first where teeth are out of line, so less enamel is removed. See Invisalign before veneers.
- Bonding to enamel where possible, which gives a stronger, longer-lasting bond.
- Choosing the right material, such as thin, strong ceramics like E.max in suitable cases. See E.max veneers explained.
- Treating fewer teeth. Sometimes one or two veneers, or bonding, is enough.
Who Should Think Twice About Veneers?
Veneers may not be the best choice if you:
- have active decay or gum disease;
- grind heavily and don’t want to wear a night guard;
- have very little enamel left;
- have teeth that are healthy and only slightly discoloured, where whitening may be enough;
- feel unsure. There is no need to rush a permanent decision.
Alternatives
Depending on what you want to change, alternatives include teeth whitening, composite bonding, composite veneers, Invisalign, or no treatment at all. A good consultation should cover these honestly.
Make an Informed Decision
Book a complimentary cosmetic consultation at Suite 302, Level 3, 70 Pitt Street, Sydney CBD. Your dentist will assess your teeth, explain how much preparation would be needed, and talk through risks, alternatives and costs. Porcelain veneers are around $1,400–$1,500 per tooth at our practice. Call (02) 8090 1105 or book online.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do veneers ruin your teeth?
No, not when carefully planned on suitable teeth. Porcelain veneers usually involve removing a thin layer of enamel, which is permanent, so you will always need a veneer on that tooth.
Are veneers reversible?
Porcelain veneers are not, because enamel is removed. Composite veneers with little or no preparation are more conservative and can sometimes be removed or adjusted.
Can you get veneers without shaving teeth?
Sometimes. Composite veneers and some thin porcelain designs need little or no preparation, depending on your teeth and the planned result.
What happens to teeth under veneers?
The tooth stays alive and can still decay at the edges if not cleaned well. Regular brushing, cleaning between teeth and check-ups help protect it.
Will I need to replace my veneers?
Possibly. Veneers can last many years, but chips, wear, gum changes or decay can mean replacement in future.