At Smoke Rise Dental in Stone Mountain, GA, many patients love the instant transformation veneers provide, but also worry:
“What happens to my teeth under the veneers?”
Veneers are a powerful cosmetic tool that involves altering natural teeth and bonding a permanent shell on top. So, it is natural to ask whether those teeth remain healthy or become vulnerable.
In this blog, you’ll learn:
- What the veneer prep process involves
- How veneers impact the natural tooth underneath
- What can go wrong if veneers aren’t cared for
- Tips for preserving your dental health
- And how Dr. Hassan Moeti and the team at Smoke Rise Dental ensure your veneers and your teeth last
What Are Veneers and How Are They Placed?
Dental veneers are thin porcelain or composite shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth. They improve the shape, size, alignment, and color of teeth, making them perfect for smile makeovers
Veneer Preparation Process
To place veneers, your dentist must:
- Trim a thin layer of enamel from the front of the teeth
- Take an impression or digital scan
- Bond the veneer using dental adhesive
This means that veneers are irreversible once you’ve had enamel removed. Your teeth will always need protection going forward, typically in the form of a veneer or crown.
What Happens to Natural Teeth Under Veneers?
The teeth underneath your veneers still require daily care and regular dental checkups. Here’s what’s happening beneath the surface:
1. Enamel Is Permanently Reduced
A small layer of enamel, usually about 0.5 mm, is removed to ensure the veneer fits naturally. This thinner enamel cannot grow back, and if the veneer comes off, it may expose your teeth to temperature sensitivity and damage.
2. Teeth Can Still Decay
Veneers cover only the front of the tooth, not the back, sides, or gumline. If you don’t brush and floss daily, plaque can accumulate, especially around the edges, leading to cavities and decay in the exposed areas.
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research:
3. Gum Health Still Matters
Inflamed or receding gums can expose the veneer margin or loosen the adhesive bond. This can cause aesthetic issues, potential tooth sensitivity, and perio-related veneer failure.
4. The Bond Between Veneer and Tooth May Weaken
Over time, the bonding material may deteriorate if you consume acidic or abrasive foods or use alcohol-based mouthwash. It weakens the veneer and enamel seal, increasing the risk of bacteria entering and causing decay.
What Happens If a Veneer Falls Off?
If a veneer comes loose due to trauma, decay, or age, the exposed tooth underneath may be:
- Discolored due to limited enamel
- Sensitive to hot, cold, or air
- Structurally weak, increasing the risk of cracks or wear
In such cases, the tooth will need prompt restoration, either by re-bonding the veneer or placing a crown, depending on the damage.
How to Protect the Tooth Under Your Veneers
Maintaining the health of your veneered teeth is essential for longevity and appearance. Here’s how:
Brush with a Soft-Bristled Brush Twice Daily
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean veneer surfaces without scratching them. Brushing twice daily removes plaque around the veneer margins, prevents gum inflammation, and protects the underlying tooth from decay, essential for maintaining oral health and veneer longevity.
Floss Every Day
Daily flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth and near the gum line, helping prevent cavities and gum disease. It’s a critical step many overlook, yet it ensures your veneers and gums stay clean, healthy, and free from harmful bacterial buildup.
Use Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash to keep your mouth fresh without harming veneer adhesives. Alcohol can weaken bonding materials over time and cause dryness, which may lead to irritation or sensitivity. A gentle rinse helps preserve your restoration’s seal and supports oral hygiene.
Avoid Grinding or Biting Hard Objects
Chewing on hard items like ice, pens, or fingernails can crack or dislodge veneers and damage the tooth beneath. If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a custom night guard to protect your restorations and natural teeth from excessive wear and tear.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Routine dental checkups every six months allow your dentist to assess veneer fit and bonding strength and detect early signs of decay or gum issues. Preventive visits ensure your veneers stay in excellent shape and address any concerns before they become costly or painful.
How Smoke Rise Dental Ensures Long-Term Veneer Success
At Smoke Rise Dental, we don’t just install veneers; we build lasting smiles that focus on health, comfort, and function.
Led by Dr. Hassan Moeti, who brings 20+ years of expertise in prosthodontics, restorative care, and cosmetic dentistry, our clinic uses:
- CEREC same-day restorations for precision and speed
- BIOLASE® WaterLase technology for gentle care and gum protection
- A compassionate approach tailored to your dental history and goals
We provide long-term veneer maintenance plans, professional cleanings, bonding evaluations, and product recommendations that help keep your teeth and veneers in excellent condition.
Conclusion: Veneers Look Amazing, But the Tooth Beneath Still Matters
Veneers may cover imperfections, but don’t protect the entire tooth from decay, gum issues, or damage. The underlying tooth's health is crucial for your veneer's success and lifespan.
By practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding harmful habits, and working with a skilled dentist like Dr. Moeti at Smoke Rise Dental, you can enjoy a confident smile that looks amazing and stays strong for years.
Ready to upgrade your smile or check the health of existing veneers?
Call Smoke Rise Dental today at (678) 730-4991 or book your appointment online.
FAQs
Do veneers damage your natural teeth?
No, veneers don’t damage teeth when done correctly. However, enamel is permanently reduced, so the tooth must always remain covered.
Can you get cavities under veneers?
Yes. Cavities can form around the edges or on uncovered parts of the tooth if oral hygiene is poor.
What should I do if my veneer feels loose?
See your dentist immediately. A loose veneer can allow bacteria to enter and may require rebonding or replacement.
How long do veneers typically last?
With good care, veneers can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular cleanings and daily brushing help extend their life.
Will I feel pain in the tooth under a veneer?
You shouldn’t, but if you experience sensitivity or pain, it could signal decay, bonding failure, or gum issues. Don’t ignore it, get it checked promptly.
Bibliography & Sources
- Clinical longevity and failures of porcelain laminate veneers with extended follow-up
- Toothbrushing & Oral Hygiene Guidelines
- Dental Veneers: Risks and Aftercare
