Since there are many different options available for those who want to improve the general appearance of their teeth, everyone starts a comprehensive study to achieve the smile they want. However, procedures that involve filing, shaving or even pulling teeth can prevent some people from starting treatment.
Therefore, in this article, we will discuss which minimally invasive options are available, whether you can get a veneer without cutting your teeth, what the alternatives are, and who is suitable for them.
Why Should Teeth Be Shaving?
First, it is helpful to fully understand why teeth should be shaved before veneers are fitted. The main reason for this is to ensure that the new veneers fit and align exactly with your existing teeth. Because veneers need to be fitted over your existing teeth, space must be left for them to fit and fill in the gaps. The only way to effectively do this without removing your teeth completely is to shave them.
This procedure is not as intimidating as it sounds and usually the amount shaved off is minimal, usually sufficient to accommodate veneer thickness which can range from 0.2mm to 0.5mm. Traditional porcelain veneers are thick compared to leaf porcelains, which are much thinner. In general, the thicker the veneer, the more your teeth need to be shaved to get a perfect fit.
If it has to be done, shaving your existing teeth is not a painful experience. Local anesthesia will be applied to numb the gum and its surroundings. This means minimal discomfort when wearing porcelain veneers.
Ultra Thin Veneers
With the developing technology today, modern aesthetic dentistry has created subtle alternatives that can improve your smile with minimal intervention to your existing teeth. While not suitable for everyone, it is another option that should be considered and evaluated. Just like with regular porcelain veneers, patients’ original teeth must be intact because they cannot replace missing teeth (dental implants will be required instead). Some of the benefits of ultra-thin coatings include;
Faster Procedure
The overall process is very quick and the dentist can start installing the veneers directly as the teeth do not need to be prepared first.
No Shaving Required
Because they’re ultra-thin, it means your existing teeth don’t need to be shaved to fit them while they fit snugly to fill in the gaps.
May Not Need Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is used to numb the area to minimize discomfort while shaving the teeth. This is not a necessary step as shaving is not required.
Long Lasting Results
Although thinner, these coatings are still very strong and durable and will provide excellent results for many years.
