I want porcelain veneers, but I am hesitant about getting my teeth prepared. If a dentist recommends preparation, how do I know if I really need it? Can no-prep veneers work for any patient? – Thank you. Alexis
Alexis,
Several factors affect whether a patient can receive no-prep veneers.
Who Is Eligible for No-Prep Veneers?
No-prep veneers will not work for every patient because they add to the thickness of teeth and can make them look bulky. But in specific situations, they may work. What factors can affect whether you get no-prep veneers?
- Small teeth—If you have small teeth and want them to look more prominent, you may be a candidate for no-prep veneers.
- Straight teeth – Straight teeth require less preparation. If teeth are crooked or protruding, a dentist will recommend trimming them to make your smile look even. Otherwise, teeth that stick out will protrude even farther with veneers on them.
- A master ceramist – Rather than using a no-prep brand of veneers, advanced cosmetic dentists work with a master ceramist to create a natural-looking smile with customized no-prep veneers.
What If a Dentist Recommends Preparing Your Teeth for Veneers?
If a dentist recommends preparing your teeth for veneers, they should explain why. Skilled cosmetic dentists conservatively prepare teeth a fraction of a millimeter. Studies show that minimal preparation is a best practice for several reasons:
- It is healthier for your teeth. Confining preparation for the tooth enamel keeps the tooth structure intact. Exposing the dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) increases the risk of bacteria leaking behind your veneers and causing infection.
- It helps with the bonding process—When a dentist prepares your teeth conservatively, the veneers adhere better to them. Attaching veneers to dentin instead of tooth enamel weakens the bonding.
- It supports the lifespan of your veneers—When porcelain veneers do not fit well, they reduce their lifespan. Porcelain’s strength comes from a secure bond to tooth enamel.
If you want porcelain veneers, consult an advanced cosmetic dentist for healthy, long-lasting results. They will examine your teeth and explain why you might need conservative teeth preparation. Read about Dr. LaSage’s porcelain veneers classification system.
Brian LeSage, DDS of Beverly Hills, sponsors this post. Dr. LeSage is an accredited Fellow of cosmetic dentistry.
