What to Expect for Your Teeth After Getting Veneers Removed

What to Expect After Getting Veneers Removed

Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front of teeth. While veneers can improve the appearance of smiles, they don't last forever. When the time comes to remove veneers, it's natural to have questions about how your teeth will look and feel afterwards.

Why Do People Get Veneers Removed?

There are several common reasons people decide to have their veneers taken off:

• They are damaged or broken beyond repair
• They have become stained or discolored over time
• Gum recession has exposed unattractive edges
• They were only intended as a temporary solution
• The patient wants a different look or dental work
• They have reached the end of their typical 10-20 year lifespan

Dentists don't recommend keeping veneers indefinitely. As with all dental work, they require replacement at some point. When veneers show signs of damage or aging, removal and replacement is often the best option.

The Veneer Removal Process

Removing veneers is a quick and painless procedure. The dentist will give you a local anesthetic to numb the teeth beforehand. They use a dental drill to gently grind away the cement holding the veneers in place. This takes off the veneers with little impact to the natural teeth underneath.

After removal, the dentist inspects the teeth to check for signs of decay or damage. If the underlying teeth are healthy and undamaged, temporary veneers may be put on while you decide on replacement veneers or other restorations.

What Teeth Look Like Underneath Veneers

Your natural teeth may look somewhat different after removing veneers. Here are some common characteristics:

• Teeth appear smaller or thinner without veneers making them look longer
• More yellowed or discolored if veneers covered staining
• Chipped or worn if veneers protected damaged enamel
• Irregular gaps if veneers created the illusion of perfectly spaced teeth
• Exposed dental work like crowns, implants, or fillings

In some cases, the underlying teeth remain nearly unchanged, aside from size. This happens when veneers are applied to healthy teeth mainly for cosmetic reasons. Your dentist can advise you on how removal may affect appearance based on your specific situation.

Sensations in Teeth After Veneers Are Removed

Patients commonly notice increased tooth sensitivity immediately after veneer removal. This is because the preparation process slightly exposes microscopic tubules in the dentin layer of the teeth.

You may experience some minor discomfort with hot and cold foods and beverages. The sensitivity is temporary and usually resolves within a few weeks as the nerve endings recede back into the dentin.

Aside from sensitivity, your teeth should function normally without veneers. Any differences in the bite or chewing ability will be related to the condition of the natural teeth, not the veneer removal itself.

Caring for Teeth Post-Removal

It's important to properly care for your teeth after getting veneers taken off. Follow these tips to keep your teeth healthy while you decide on next steps:

• Brush gently using a soft bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
• Floss at least once daily to avoid plaque buildup
• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to keep gums healthy
• Avoid stain-causing foods and beverages like coffee, tea, wine, berries, and tomato sauce
• Steer clear of hard candies, chewing ice, popcorn kernels, and other foods that could damage the teeth

Regular dental visits are also key for monitoring tooth decay and protecting exposed dentin. Let your dentist know immediately if you notice any new sensitivity, pain, or issues.

Do Teeth Need New Veneers?

Getting replacement veneers is a common choice after removal. It provides a minimally invasive way to restore a beautiful smile.

However, veneers may not be the best option if:

• Teeth have extensive decay or damage underneath
• There are oral health issues like gum disease present
• The patient pursues major restorative treatments like crowns or implants instead
• Finances are limited and veneers are too expensive
• A more conservative cosmetic approach is preferred

Talk to your dentist about whether to replace veneers or consider alternatives like teeth whitening, reshaping, or orthodontics.

Common Questions About Teeth After Veneers

Do teeth change shape after veneer removal?

Teeth often look thinner or smaller without veneers, which add width and length. Their original shape becomes visible but is unchanged unless other work was done underneath.

Can veneers be reused after removal?

No, veneers cannot be reused. The grinding process damages them. New impressions must be taken to create replacement veneers.

Do teeth hurt after taking off veneers?

Mild tooth sensitivity from exposed dentin tubules is common after removal. Significant pain is rare if the veneers are taken off properly. Let your dentist know if any pain persists.

How long do teeth stay sensitive after removing veneers?

Sensitivity typically decreases within a few weeks post-removal as the nerve endings retreat back into the dentin. Proper oral care helps speed recovery.

Can veneers be removed without damaging teeth?

Yes, veneers can usually be removed without damaging the natural teeth if done carefully by a dentist. However, existing damage may impact the teeth.

Do teeth move after veneer removal?

Teeth are unlikely to shift after veneer removal alone. However, grinding them down for veneers can make teeth more prone to moving over time.

Can teeth be whitened after taking off veneers?

Yes, professional whitening treatments can brighten discolored teeth after veneer removal. Over-the-counter kits may also work, but should be used cautiously.

How soon can new veneers be put on after removal?

Replacement veneers can usually be done right away or within a few weeks after the initial ones are removed. Temporary veneers may be worn in the interim.

Can veneers be taken off at home?

No, only a dentist should remove veneers to avoid damaging teeth. Home removal risks chipping teeth or leaving cement remnants behind.

Caring for Your Teeth Before and After Veneers

Veneer removal lets you see the current state of the teeth underneath. With proper oral hygiene and dental care, your natural smile can still shine beautifully. Work with your dentist to find the optimal cosmetic treatment after veneers, whether replacement veneers or another option. Your teeth have excellent restorative possibilities, with or without veneers.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.