What Happens to Your Real Teeth Under Veneers? (Spoiler: They're Still There)

So, you’re thinking about getting veneers in Shoreline, CT. Maybe you’ve seen them on your favorite celeb, or maybe your dentist mentioned them as an option to perfect your smile. Either way, you’re curious — but also a little nervous.

The most common question people ask is, “But what happens to my real teeth under veneers?” Are they shaved down to little nubs? Do they disappear? Will I still have real teeth under there?

Great news: your real teeth don’t go anywhere. Veneers are a cosmetic enhancement, not a tooth replacement. Let’s walk through what happens under the surface so you can feel confident and informed before making the leap.

First Off, What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin shells, usually made of porcelain or composite resin, that are bonded to the front of your natural teeth. They’re designed to improve the look of your smile by covering up chips, stains, gaps, or slightly crooked teeth.  

Veneers are custom-made to fit your mouth, match your desired shade, and blend in with your natural teeth. So yes, you’ll still have your original teeth, just dressed up in their Sunday best.

The Real Teeth Are Still in There

Let’s clear up a common misconception: getting veneers does not mean removing all your tooth structure. Your teeth aren’t extracted or replaced. In fact, they’re still very much alive and kicking underneath.

Here’s what really happens:

Your Dentist Preps the Tooth Surface

To make room for the veneer, a tiny bit of enamel (usually less than a millimeter) is shaved off the front of your tooth. That’s thinner than your fingernail. This step helps the veneer bond properly and sit flush against your gumline for a natural look. But don’t worry, this doesn’t hurt (you’ll be numbed up), and it doesn’t remove the whole tooth.

Your Teeth Stay Functional

Underneath each veneer is your real tooth doing its job — supporting the structure, feeling temperature, and staying rooted in your gums. Veneers are like a cosmetic outer layer, not a full tooth overhaul. You’ll still brush and floss like normal, and your teeth will still need regular dental care.

No, They Don’t Rot Under Veneers (If You Take Care of Them)

One of the biggest fears is that veneers somehow cause your real teeth to decay or rot away. That’s not true, as long as you maintain good oral hygiene. You can still get cavities in the exposed parts of your natural teeth (especially along the gumline or behind the veneer), so brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly is non-negotiable.

So, What’s the Catch?

Well, veneers are considered a permanent change. Once enamel is removed, it doesn’t grow back. This means if your veneer chips, cracks, or wears out over time (usually after 10–15 years), you’ll need to replace it. You can’t just take them off and go back to your natural teeth like nothing happened.

That said, many people feel the trade-off is worth it for a boost in confidence and a picture-perfect smile.

Your Real Teeth Are Still the Real MVPs

Veneers are a cosmetic solution that enhances your smile without replacing your natural teeth. Yes, a small amount of enamel is removed, but your real teeth remain intact, healthy, and functional underneath. They don’t disappear, and they definitely don’t rot if you continue to take care of them.  

Veneers are simply a way to give your smile a flawless finish, with your natural teeth still doing the heavy lifting behind the scenes.

Considering Getting Veneers in Shoreline, CT?

If you’ve been thinking about transforming your smile with veneers, now’s the perfect time to take the next step. At Friedler Dental Group, we specialize in creating stunning, natural-looking results tailored just for you.  

Book a consultation today and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve the confident smile you deserve!